# Splenic rupture secondary to diverticulitis: a case report

## TL;DR

A rare case of splenic rupture caused by diverticulitis is reported, highlighting the importance of recognizing this uncommon but serious complication.

## Contribution

This case report presents a rare association between atraumatic splenic rupture and complicated diverticulitis.

## Key findings

- A 49-year-old female developed splenic rupture following non-operative treatment of perforated diverticulitis.
- Computed tomography confirmed splenic subcapsular hematoma and gas consistent with rupture.
- The patient underwent splenectomy and other procedures and recovered well.

## Abstract

Atraumatic splenic rupture (ASR) is a rare condition that may be idiopathic or may occur in the setting of certain inflammatory processes, infections, malignancies, and autoimmune conditions. Here, we report a very rare case of ASR secondary to complicated diverticulitis. A 49-year-old female presented with sudden onset of severe abdominal pain on the day after discharge, following attempted non-operative treatment of perforated diverticulitis at the splenic flexure. She denied any history of trauma. Computed tomography showed new splenic subcapsular hematoma and gas consistent with splenic rupture. Exploratory laparotomy with splenectomy, distal pancreatectomy, splenic flexure resection, and end transverse colostomy was performed, and the patient recovered well. Although it is rare, ASR can be life threatening, and clinicians should be aware of its association with diverticulitis.