Percutaneous Drainage of Splenic Abscess: Case Report and Review of Literature

Abstract

Splenic abscess is an uncommon entity, reported in 0.14% to 0.70% of several autopsy series. Untreated, the mortality approaches 100%.1 When the diagnosis is made preopenatively and treated by antibiotics and splenectomy, there is a 17% mortality, but preoperative diagnosis was made only in 33% of the cases in one review.2 High degree of clinical awareness and aggressive diagnostic approach are essential for early diagnosis. percutaneous drainage of splenic abscess has been demonstrated to be a safe and effective method of treatment in adults in eight cases,3-5 without mortality or significant complications. We present the first pediatric age patient who was successfully treated by percutaneous drainage.