Diagnosis and Management of Atraumatic Splenic Rupture in Chronic Pancreatitis: A Case Report

Introduction

Atraumatic splenic rupture (ASR) is an uncommon condition, despite being a recognized injury in cases of blunt abdominal trauma. This diagnosis is frequently missed in patients without a trauma history, but timely identification is critical, as it poses a serious threat to life [1]. Acute and chronic pancreatitis have been identified as potential causes of atraumatic splenic rupture (ASR), though the exact frequency of this association remains unclear. This occurs due to the close anatomical relationship between the pancreatic tail and the spleen. Possible mechanisms include direct erosion of pseudocysts, localized portal hypertension from splenic vein thrombosis, acute inflammation of ectopic pancreatic tissue within the spleen, tryptic erosion at the splenic hilum, or perisplenic adhesions resulting from recurrent episodes of pancreatitis and perisplenitis [2] [3] [4]. We report a case of ASR in a male patient with a prior diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis. Given the rarity of this condition, there is limited information available on such cases, highlighting the importance for emergency room surgeons to be aware of this issue.

Publication History

Received: 27 August 2025

Accepted after revision: 07 October 2025

Article published online:
28 October 2025

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