Spontaneous subcapsular renal hematoma in a patient being treated with dual antiplatelet therapy: A case report

Abstract

Introduction: Spontaneous subcapsular renal hematoma is a relatively uncommon entity. After diagnosis, the determination of its cause is critical for the appropriate management. Case Report: In this report, we describe a case of spontaneous subcapsular renal hematoma in a patient without history of trauma. The patient was under double daily antiplatelet medication because of coronary heart disease. Conclusion: Diagnosis of the condition is suggested by ultrasound scan and confirmed by computed tomography (CT) scan. Literature suggests that the majority of these cases occur in association with renal tumors, and radical nephrectomy is recommended. When an underlying cause cannot be found, conservative treatment is proposed. However, the assessment must be completed with long­term, close surveillance, due to the risk of an undiagnosed neoplastic lesion. In our case, according to the negative imaging, the double antiplatelet therapy may be the only predisposing factor for the hemorrhage. It must be emphasized that discontinuation of medication and close follow­ up can save the kidney.