Splenic rupture associated with bacterial endocarditis and sickle cell trait.

Abstract

A patient with bacterial endocarditis and sickle cell trait survived septic rupture of the spleen. This is the third reported case of survival following this rare complication of endocarditis. Certain features permitted early suspicion of the complication and the favorable outcome is attributed to prompt operation followed by prolonged therapy with antibiotics for the endocarditis. Of key importance is the early diagnosis based upon the awareness of the frequent association of a significant pathological condition in the spleen and bacterial endocarditis.