Hemoperitoneum secondary to splenic rupture in a mare

Abstract

A 8-year-old mixed-breed mare was presented to the Hospital with a 5 hours history of abdominal pain, reluctance to move, weakness and sweating. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed a large amount of echogenic peritoneal fluid with a swirling movement suggestive of hemoperitoneum. In addition, an intra-abdominal structure with an echogenic pattern similar to the spleen was identified. The case history and ultrasonographic findings supported the diagnosis of spontaneous splenic rupture as the cause of hemoperitoneum.