Spontaneous splenic rupture secondary to Epstein-Barr Virus-induced infectious mononucleosis

Abstract

Spontaneous splenic rupture is a rare but life-threatening complication of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-induced infectious mononucleosis (IM). It occurs in less than 0.5% of cases and is the most frequent cause of death in IM. We report a case of a 13-year old female presenting with hemodynamic instability following diagnosis of EBV-induced IM. Abdominal CT was positive for grade III splenic laceration with active extravasation and exploratory laparotomy with splenectomy was performed. Postoperatively, she recovered appropriately, received vaccinations, and was discharged on postoperative day 5. Follow up has revealed no complications and return to normal activity.