Delayed Rupture of the Spleen

 

Delayed Rupture of the Spleen

The spleen is an organ that sits underneath the rib cage on the left side of the body. It plays a vital role in the function of the immune system. However, it is prone to rupturing in cases of trauma. While this is often immediate, a recent case report shows that this rupture can also be delayed.
While the spleen does play an essential role in the body, it is not a vital organ. This means that people can have their spleen removed and still survive. One of the most common reasons that people have their spleen taken out is due to rupture. Some of the causes of splenic rupture include:

• Sports: Sports are some of the most common reasons that people can damage their spleen. Contact sports, such as football, leave the spleen particularly vulnerable. However, this rupture can happen with any activity.
• Assault: Someone who gets into a fight can also have their spleen rupture. Blunt or penetrating trauma to the abdomen along the left side of the body can lead to a rupture of the spleen.
• Car Accidents: Auto accidents and motorcycle accidents can also lead to ruptures of the spleen. A direct impact to this region can cause a splenic rupture.

If the spleen ruptures, there is always a potential for severe blood loss. Sometimes, people can develop internal bleeding which could ultimately lead to wrongful death. Quick diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

A Case Report: Delayed Rupture of the Spleen

A recent case report was published showing that a delayed rupture of the spleen is possible. A young man was sitting in the front passenger seat of the car. The driver lost control of the vehicle, and the vehicle rolled over several times. The young man sustained multiple scrapes and bruises during the accident. Due to his injuries, he was transported to a local hospital. He was scanned multiple times and was found to have not sustained any internal injuries. Later that week, he turned pale and fainted. A massive bruise was noted on the right side of his abdomen. He was taken to the hospital where his spleen was found to have ruptured several days after the initial accident. It turned out that the man had developed mononucleosis, which made his spleen more vulnerable to break. This, combined with the trauma of the crash, caused the spleen to swell. It ultimately ruptured, leading to a subsequent hospital visit.

Legal Help is Available

It can be a challenge to connect an initial traumatic event to damage down the road. This is why help from an experienced personal injury lawyer in Sacramento is vital. A lawyer can help with:

• Accident Investigation
• Medical Records
• Insurance Company Claims
• Court Filings
• Paperwork

Photo by Ben Hershey on Unsplash
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