# Atraumatic Splenic Rupture Associated With Epstein-Barr Virus: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A 16-year-old girl with Epstein-Barr virus infection developed a rare but life-threatening spleen rupture and required emergency surgery.

## Contribution

This case report highlights atraumatic splenic rupture as a rare complication of Epstein-Barr virus infection.

## Key findings

- Atraumatic splenic rupture occurred in a patient with acute Epstein-Barr virus infection.
- Emergency splenectomy was necessary due to hemodynamic instability.
- Prompt recognition of abdominal symptoms in mononucleosis patients is critical to prevent severe complications.

## Abstract

Infectious mononucleosis, caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), is typically self-limiting but can lead to rare, life-threatening complications such as atraumatic splenic rupture (ASR). We report the case of a 16-year-old female presenting with left upper quadrant pain and peritoneal signs. The initial laboratory findings revealed grade I anemia and leukocytosis. Images obtained by simple CT revealed the presence of free intra-abdominal fluid and a perisplenic hematoma. This raised the diagnostic suspicion of splenic rupture in the context of an acute EBV infection. Emergency splenectomy was required due to hemodynamic instability. The patient recovered well postoperatively. ASR, though uncommon, demands prompt recognition and management in mononucleosis patients with abdominal symptoms and potential circulatory compromise.