Delayed rupture of the spleen and streptokinase therapy.

Abstract

Delayed rupture of the spleen is a rare but serious complication of blunt abdominal trauma. A 47-year-old woman with a history of fractured pelvis from a motor vehicle accident 6 months earlier presented with evidence of a myocardial infarction. Subsequent streptokinase administration was complicated by splenic rupture, which was managed by evacuation of the clotted blood and splenectomy. The patient made a complete recovery. The risk of splenic rupture and bleeding complications resulting from thrombolytic therapy for myocardial infarction is discussed, as are the controversy over whether delayed splenic rupture is a true diagnosis, the mechanism of rupture and the clues to impending rupture.

• Authors: R Nam, M M Carr, C G Jamieson
• Journal: Canadian journal of surgery. Journal canadien de chirurgie (Can J Surg) Vol. 39 Issue 2 Pg. 151-4 (Apr 1996) ISSN: 0008-428X [Print] Canada
• PMID: 8769927 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Streptokinase

Topics

• Abdominal Injuries (complications)
• Contraindications
• Female
• Humans
• Middle Aged
• Myocardial Infarction (drug therapy)
• Risk Factors
• Splenic Rupture (chemically induced, etiology)
• Streptokinase (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Thrombolytic Therapy (adverse effects)
• Time Factors
• Wounds, Nonpenetrating (complications)