Delayed splenic rupture in a young patient subsequent to blunt abdominal trauma

Abstract

We present the case report of a 24-years-old male patient who suffered a traffic accident with blunt left thoracoabdominal trauma. Initially assessed without signs of immediate severity, he developed diffuse abdominal pain and diarrhea fourteen days later. These were interpreted as malaria and typhoid fever based on complementary studies consistent with the epidemiological context. Due to progressive clinical deterioration, he was referred for surgical evaluation. Signs of an acute abdomen were observed, along with intraperitoneal free fluid on ultrasound focused on trauma, and abdominal paracentesis yielded non-clotted blood. Urgent surgical intervention was performed, confirming a grade V splenic rupture. A total splenectomy was performed, with a favorable postoperative course. This case highlights the need for clinical monitoring in patients with blunt abdominal trauma, the possibility of delayed diagnosis due to endemic diseases, and the importance of timely diagnosis and intervention to reduce morbidity and mortality.