Pathologic rupture of the spleen as the initial manifestation in acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Bernat, S.; García Boyero, R.; Guinot, M.; López, F.; Gozalbo, T.; Cañigral, G.
Haematologica 83(8): 760-761
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 0390-6078 PMID: 9793269 Document Number: 489685
Pathologic splenic rupture is a rare and life-threatening complication of acute leukemia. It is even more uncommon as the Initial manifestation, and only a few cases has been reported In the literature. Early recognition of this complication is vital because the prognosis is fatal without immediate treatment by splenectomy. We report the case of a spontaneous spleen rupture irreversibly complicating the onset of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in a 19-year-old man, in spite of splenectomy. In our case abdominal ultrasound was a good, non-invasive diagnostic test. Therefore, we believe that the course of the underlying disease and the physical condition of the patient dramatically influenced the disease evolution.