Splenic rupture in community acquired pneumonia: A case report

INTRODUCTION: Splenic rupture is a rare but potentially lethal complication of community acquired pneumonia. PRESENTATION OF CASE: We present an unusual case of haemorrhagic shock following splenic rupture requiring emergency splenectomy in a 49 year old female with community acquired pneumonia. DISCUSSION: The epidemiology, aetiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, investigation, management and outcomes of atraumatic splenic rupture are discussed. CONCLUSION: Atraumatic splenic rupture is a rare but potentially fatal complication of numerous disease processes including pneumonia. A high index of suspicion and a thorough and systematic approach to the deteriorating patient is required to prevent related morbidity and mortality. Post-operative follow-up must address the potential sequelae of asplenia.