An unusual case of desmoid tumour presenting as haemorrhagic shock

Abstract

We report the case of a 22-year-old patient who presented to the emergency department with epigastric pain and vomiting. Haematological studies showed a rapid decrease in haemoglobin levels from 13.6g/dl to 4.9g/dl. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed the presence of fluid around the spleen and the patient was immediately referred for surgery. An intra-abdominal desmoid tumour presenting as a hemorrhagic shock has not previously been described. Given the relatively benign course of the disease and the young age at presentation, this clinical entity should not be overlooked as it has the potential to invade vessels and therefore be fatal.