Ruptured Spleen

Overview

A ruptured spleen is a serious medical emergency resulting from a tear in the surface of the spleen. Positioned just beneath the rib cage on the left side of the body, the spleen plays a vital role in immune function and blood filtration.

Typically, a forceful impact to the abdomen—such as those encountered in sports injuries, physical altercations, or vehicular accidents—is the primary cause of spleen rupture. However, individuals with an enlarged spleen are at risk of rupture from less intense trauma. Without immediate medical intervention, the internal bleeding resulting from a ruptured spleen can be life-threatening.

Treatment for a ruptured spleen may involve emergency surgery for some individuals, while others may be stabilized with several days of hospitalization and close monitoring.

Symptoms

Indicators and symptoms suggestive of a ruptured spleen comprise:

• Pain in the left shoulder.
• Blurring of vision.
• Being pale.
• Fainting.
• Distress in the upper left abdomen.
• Anxiety or being restless.
• Sensitivity to touch in the upper left abdomen.
• Feeling disoriented, faint, or lightheaded.

A ruptured spleen constitutes a medical emergency. If you experience signs and symptoms suggestive of a ruptured spleen following an injury, seek immediate emergency medical attention.

Causes

Causes of spleen rupture may include:

• Damage to the body’s left side. A ruptured spleen commonly occurs due to a forceful impact to the left upper abdomen or the left lower chest, which can happen during sporting accidents, fistfights, or car crashes. The spleen may rupture shortly after the abdominal trauma, or in certain instances, it may occur days or even weeks following the injury.
• Spleen enlargement. Enlargement of the spleen can result from the accumulation of blood cells within the organ. Various underlying issues can lead to an enlarged spleen, including conditions like mononucleosis, other infections, liver disease, and blood cancers.

Risk factors

An already enlarged spleen, whether from infection or another underlying condition, increases the likelihood of spleen rupture. Participating in contact sports involving chest impacts further raises this risk.