Spontaneous rupture of the spleen during the development of chronic pancreatitis. one case
Ronchi, L.; de Broucker, V.; Pavlovitch, J.M.; Poirier, T.; Ronchi, C.; Vilain, G.
Annales de Gastroenterologie et d'Hepatologie 21(3): 137-139
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0066-2070 PMID: 4026197 Document Number: 253039
Spontaneous rupture of the spleen is a relatively rare occurrence during the course of chronic pancreatitis. The physiopathology remains imprecise and mechanical factors are associated with pancreatic enzyme diffusion and vascular changes in explaining its aetiology. The diagnosis is difficult since it often mimics an acute exacerbation of pancreatitis or even actual acute pancreatitis when the existence of the pancreatic condition is not previously known. Abdominal echotomography or peritoneal puncture-lavage and, now, CAT scanning are the key factors in reaching the diagnosis.