What are Splenic Ruptures?

Splenic Ruptures
Splenic Ruptures. 1A: CECT abdomen shows splenic rupture with hemoperitoneum. 1B: Low power view of lymph node showing follicular pattern (X100). 1C: High power view showing a predominantly centrocytic population and the inset shows CD20 positivity (X400). Pathologic splenic rupture in a patient with follicular lymphoma. Dayama AP, Kapoor R, Dass J, Singh G, Mahapatra M, Pati HP - Mediterranean journal of hematology and infectious diseases (2011). Not Altered. CC.

Splenic ruptures are ruptures typically due to blunt force trauma that may be direct or indirect. Nontraumatic or spontaneous rupture occurs in an enlarged spleen but rarely in a normal spleen.

What is the Pathology of Splenic Ruptures?

The pathology of splenic ruptures is:

-Etiology: The cause of splenic ruptures is trauma which could be direct or indirect.

-Genes involved: None. 

-Pathogenesis: The sequence of events that lead to splenic ruptures is trauma and bleeding.

How does Splenic Ruptures Present? 

Patients with splenic ruptures typically according to studies suggest that traumatic splenic ruptures are more probable to occur in males (2:1 male to female ratio) in ages ranging from 18 to 34 years. The symptoms, features, and clinical findings associated with splenic ruptures include tachycardia, tachypnea, restlessness, anxiety, decreased capillary refill, and decreased pulse pressure. Complaint of left upper quadrant abdominal tenderness with minor focal injury to the spleen may also be present.

How is Splenic Ruptures Diagnosed? 

Splenic ruptures is diagnosed through history and physical examination, imaging studies, and laboratory studies. Imaging such as focused abdominal sonographic technique (FAST scan), CT scanning, angiography, and MRI may be helpful. Laboratory tests, complete blood cell count, or hemoglobin level help provide baseline values.

How is Splenic Ruptures Treated? 

Splenic ruptures is treated via Interventional radiology (splenic angioembolization), or surgical therapy (emergency celiotomy or splenorrhaphy).

What is the Prognosis of Splenic Ruptures?

The prognosis of splenic ruptures is good. Prognosis is usually excellent, but those patients left asplenic by their injuries and surgery increase the risk of fatal and debilitating infection for the remainder of their lives.