Gastro-splenic fistula, a rare presentation of sickle cell disease patient with splenic abscess: Case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION: Hemoglobinopathies such as Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Disease are risk factors for splenic abscess formation. Gastro-splenic fistula is a rare complication of splenic abscess. In the literature, there are no reported cases of gastro-splenic fistula in patients with hemoglobinopathies. PRESENTATION OF CASE: We are presenting a rare case of a 15-year-old boy with undiagnosed sickle cell trait with splenic sequestration crisis as first presentation of his disease. This was complicated by splenic abscess formation. Gastro-Splenic fistula was not apparent in computed tomography and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy findings were misinterpreted initially, which lead to delay in diagnosis and management. The patient was managed initially with antibiotics, followed by splenectomy and partial gastrectomy. DISCUSSION: Gastro-splenic fistula is not a common entity. It may be caused by gastric or splenic pathologies. In our case, which is the first reported in literature, the fistula developed as a complication of splenic abscess in patient with sickle cell disease. Its presentation depends on the underlying condition. CT scan is the modality of choice for diagnosis. Upper GI endoscopy findings of the fistula is often misinterpreted. The treatment of fistula is splenectomy and partial gastrectomy. CONCLUSION: Delayed diagnosis and management of splenic abscess in patients with sickle cell disease predisposes to fistula formation.