Emergency splenectomy in pregnancy complicated with idiopathic thrombocytopenia
Larciprete, G.
Minerva Ginecologica 52(12): 527-531
2000
ISSN/ISBN: 0026-4784 PMID: 11310151 Document Number: 513056
Thrombocytopenia can be a pathophysiological feature of pregnancy and spontaneous splenic rupture in pregnancy is a rare and potentially catastrophic event. A case of splenic rupture after cesarean delivery, performed for increasing thrombocytopenia is reported. The diagnosis was not suspected until laparotomy. Low transverse cesarean birth required a vertical extension of the incision into the upper uterine segment. An emergency splenectomy was undertaken without complications. The operation was followed by a massive increase in the thrombocyte count. Both mother and baby are in good health 10 months later. The newborn had a normal thrombocyte count at delivery and thereafter. The importance of early diagnosis and management techniques are discussed.