Simultaneous small bowel and colon obstruction due to splenosis. A case report and review of literature

INTRODUCTION: Splenosis, an autotransplantation of splenic tissues in another compartment of the body, is only symptomatic when hematologic diseases have recurred or compression of other adjacent structures have occurred. Therefore, we report a clinical case of a patient with bowel obstruction due to splenosis. CASE PRESENTATION: A patient with a history of splenectomy, presented to the emergency room for abdominal pain and obstipation, suggesting intestinal obstruction which is also seen on CT scan. During laparotomy, multiple splenic nodules were seen on the mesentery of the small bowel and colon, with vascular bridges between them, resulting in bowel obstruction. Resection of splenic nodules was performed. The post-operative course was uneventful and the patient was discharged a week after. DISCUSSION: Although very rare, gastrointestinal symptoms may sometimes be described in patients with splenosis. Bleeding or obstruction can occur because of intramural grow or external compression, respectively. Treatment consists of resection of these nodules. CONCLUSION: Splenosis should always be thought in patients with previous splenic rupture and presenting with incidental nodules seen on imaging, with further investigations when symptoms are present.