Pseudoquiste esplénico espontáneo: Enfoque diagnóstico y terapéutico. Reporte de un caso / Spontaneous splenic pseudocyst: Diagnostic and therapeutic approach. A case report

Introducción. Los quistes esplénicos son entidades anatómicas y clínicas poco frecuentes, con una incidencia aproximada de 0,07 %. Se clasifican como quistes esplénicos primarios, que contienen revestimiento epitelial y se subdividen en parasitarios y no parasitarios según su etiología, y quistes secundarios, que no poseen revestimiento epitelial en la luz quística y suelen ser el resultado de un traumatismo abdominal. Por lo general, son asintomáticos y se pueden encontrar de manera incidental durante estudios de imagen o en cirugía. Los síntomas están relacionados con el tamaño de los quistes. El tratamiento ideal es la resección quirúrgica, que puede ser total o parcial. Caso clínico. Paciente femenina de 23 años, sin antecedentes de trauma, con dolor abdominal intermitente, de varios meses de evolución. En los estudios imagenológicos se identificó un pseudoquiste esplénico gigante. Fue tratada mediante esplenectomía total por laparoscopia, sin complicaciones quirúrgicas. Resultados. Tuvo una adecuada evolución postoperatoria. Conclusión.El diagnóstico de quiste esplénico se realiza mediante estudios imagenológicos y se confirma con el análisis histopatológico. La esplenectomía total ha sido el tratamiento tradicional; sin embargo, ahora mediante la implementación de abordajes mínimamente invasivos, se prefiere la esplenectomía parcial, con el fin de preservar tejido esplénico y su función inmunológica.

Introduction.Splenic cysts are rare anatomical and clinical entities, with an approximate incidence of 0.07%. They are classified as primary splenic cysts, which contain epithelial lining and are subdivided into parasitic and non-parasitic depending on their etiology, and the secondary splenic cysts, which do not have an epithelial lining in the cystic lumen and are usually the result of abdominal trauma. They are usually asymptomatic and can be found incidentally during imaging studies or in surgery. The symptoms are related to the size of the cysts. The ideal treatment is surgical resection, which can be total or partial. Clinical case. A 23-year-old female patient, with no history of trauma, with intermittent abdominal pain, lasting several months. Imaging studies identified a giant splenic pseudocyst. She was treated by total laparoscopic splenectomy, without surgical complications. Results. She had an adequate postoperative evolution. Conclusion. The diagnosis of splenic cyst is made through imaging studies and confirmed with histopathological analysis. Total splenectomy has been the traditional treatment; however, now through the implementation of minimally invasive approaches, partial splenectomy is preferred, in order to preserve splenic tissue and its immunological function.

Spleen anomalies and lesions in CT and MRI: essentials for radiologists and clinicians-a pictorial review.

The precise evaluation of splenic lesions using cross-sectional imaging presents a complex challenge due to the overlapping imaging characteristics of most splenic diseases and the absence of specific symptoms, complicating the diagnosis process. This pictorial review highlights the essential elements that should be included in a radiology report to interpret cross-sectional imaging studies of splenic lesions. To augment the diagnostic accuracy, we propose the implementation of a stepwise algorithmic approach. This approach offers a comprehensive analysis of splenic anomalies and lesions, providing an invaluable tool for radiologists and clinicians.

[Spontaneous splenic rupture. Case report and literature review]. / Ruptura esplénica espontánea. Reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura.

Background: Spontaneous splenic rupture is often life threatening due to delay in diagnosis and treatment. Abdominal pain, Kehr's sign, nausea, bloating, altered consciousness, and intestinal obstruction may be present. In larger splenic lesions, signs of peritonitis and hypovolemic shock are present. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography is the election study. Diagnosis is confirmed by negative viral serology and normal spleen on gross and histopathologic inspection. The most frequent treatment in splenectomy. Clinic case: A 30-year-old male with no medical history presented with generalized abdominal pain accompanied by Kehr's sign. He is diagnosed with ruptured spleen by contrast-enhanced computed tomography and successfully treated with splenectomy. He was discharged 6 days after surgery. Conclusions: Spontaneous rupture of the spleen is uncommon, but with high morbidity and mortality. It must be a differential diagnosis in the face of abdominal and/or chest pain, and the corresponding imaging studies should be carried out if the patient's conditions allow it, or their search during an exploratory laparotomy.

Introducción: la ruptura esplénica espontánea frecuentemente es mortal debido a la demora en el diagnóstico y tratamiento. Se puede presentar dolor abdominal, signo de Kehr, náuseas, distensión abdominal, alteración de la consciencia y obstrucción intestinal. En lesiones esplénicas más grandes, se presentan signos de peritonitis y shock hipovolémico. El estudio de elección es la tomografía computarizada contrastada. El diagnóstico se confirma por serología viral negativa y bazo normal en la inspección macroscópica e histopatológica. El tratamiento más frecuente es la esplenectomía. Caso clínico: paciente hombre de 30 años de edad, sin antecedentes patológicos, con dolor abdominal generalizado, acompañado del signo de Kehr. Es diagnosticado con ruptura de bazo por tomografía computarizada contrastada y tratado exitosamente con esplenectomía. Se egresa a los 6 días postquirúrgicos. Conclusiones: la ruptura espontánea del bazo es poco común, pero con alta morbimortalidad. Debe ser un diagnóstico diferencial ante un dolor abdominal y/o torácico, y realizar los estudios de imagen correspondientes si las condiciones del paciente lo permiten o bien su búsqueda durante una laparotomía exploratoria.

Principales modificaciones asociadas a la esplenectomía / Main modifications associated with splenectomy

Introducción. El bazo es un órgano linfoide implicado en el reconocimiento antigénico, la depuración de patógenos y la remoción de eritrocitos envejecidos o con inclusiones citoplasmáticas. La esplenectomía es una técnica utilizada tanto para el diagnóstico (linfomas), el tratamiento (trombocitopenia inmune, anemia hemolítica adquirida) y la curación (microesferocitosis hereditaria) de diversas enfermedades. Métodos. Describir los principales cambios hematológicos y complicaciones asociadas al procedimiento de esplenectomía. Discusión. Los cambios posteriores a la esplenectomía pueden ser inmediatos, como la aparición de cuerpos de Howell-Jolly, la trombocitosis y la presencia de leucocitosis durante las primeras dos semanas. Otras complicaciones tempranas incluyen la presencia de trombosis, en especial en pacientes con factores de riesgo secundarios (edad, sedentarismo, manejo hospitalario, obesidad) o un estado hipercoagulable (diabetes, cáncer, trombofilia primaria), siendo tanto el flujo de la vena porta como el volumen esplénico los principales factores de riesgo para su aparición. Las complicaciones tardías incluyen la alteración en la respuesta inmune, aumentando el riesgo de infecciones por bacterias encapsuladas, en conjunto con una reducción en los niveles de IgM secundario a la ausencia de linfocitos B a nivel de bazo. Debido al riesgo de infecciones, principalmente por Streptococcus pneumoniae, la esplenectomía parcial se ha considerado una opción. Conclusión. Una adecuada valoración de la indicación de esplenectomía y la identificación precoz de complicaciones posoperatorias son fundamentales para reducir la mortalidad asociada a la esplenectomía

Introduction. The spleen is a lymphoid organ involved in antigen recognition, pathogen clearance, and removal of aged erythrocytes or those with cytoplasmic inclusions. Splenectomy is a technique used for diagnosis (lymphomas), treatment (immune thrombocytopenia, acquired hemolytic anemia), and cure (hereditary microspherocytosis) of various diseases. Methods. To describe the main hematological changes and complications associated with the splenectomy procedure. Discussion. Changes after splenectomy can be considered immediate: the appearance of Howell-Jolly bodies, thrombocytosis, and leukocytosis during the first two weeks. Other complications include the presence of thrombosis, especially in patients with risk factors (age, sedentary lifestyle, long hospital stay, obesity) or a hypercoagulable state (diabetes, cancer, primary thrombophilia), with both portal vein flow and splenic volume being the main risk factors for its appearance. Late complications include altered immune response, increased risk of infections by encapsulated bacteria, and a reduction in IgM levels secondary to the absence of B lymphocytes in the spleen; due to the risk of diseases mainly by Streptococcus pneumoniae, partial splenectomy has been considered an option. Conclusion. An adequate assessment of the indication for splenectomy and the early identification of complications are essential to reduce the mortality associated with splenectomy

Sickle Cell Trait, Clinical Manifestations and Outcomes: A Cross-Sectional Study in Colombia: Increasing Rate of Symptomatic Subjects Living in High Altitude.

Background: Sickle cell trait (SCT) is an autosomal recessive blood disorder in which patients are heterozygous carriers for hemoglobin S (HbAS) and are usually asymptomatic. We performed a descriptive analysis of clinical manifestations and outcomes associated with SCT. Methods: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study that included patients with SCT from 2014 to 2020 at Hospital Militar Central, the reference center of the Military forces in Bogota, Colombia. Results: Of 647 hemoglobin electrophoresis analyzed, we identified 51 patients with SCT, including 43 males (84.3%) and eight females (15.7%), with a median age of 22 years (IQR 15-36 years). Of these, 28 (54.8%) were Afro-Colombian, 23 (45.1%) were Colombian mestizos, and 31/51 (60.8%) of patients were active military members. Twenty-four patients (47.1%) were asymptomatic, and Twenty-seven patients (52.9%) were symptomatic (systemic complications); Most of the patients who presented symptoms were active military members of the Colombian military forces. Splenic complications were the most important (85.2%), p=0.0005, and there was a wide spectrum of splenic complications. In addition, we found significant elevations in leukocytes, bilirubin, LDH, and CRP. Eighteen patients (66.7%) received medical management, five (18.5%) required splenectomy, and only 5.9% of patients were sent for genetic counseling. Conclusions: Military Personnel is a population with a high risk of developing symptoms, and splenic complications were the most relevant in symptomatic patients. Most patients received medical treatment, and 18.5% of patients required splenectomy. Our results reflect the absence of redirection of these patients to genetic counseling.

Miositis por Bartonella henselae: caso clínico en una adolescente / Bartonella henselae myositis: case report in an adolescent

La miositis de origen vírico o bacteriano es frecuente en la edad pediátrica. Causa dolor muscular y debilidad, con fiebre y malestar general. Una causa es la infección por Bartonella henselae, bacteria implicada en la enfermedad por arañazo de gato que, a veces, causa afectación multisistémica. Se presenta el caso de una adolescente que acudió al servicio de urgencias por mialgia intensa, malestar, adelgazamiento y esplenomegalia. En el labortorio se observaron parámetros inflamatorios elevados. Refería contacto con un gato. Entre los estudios realizados, la resonancia magnética (RM) de miembros inferiores mostró una imagen compatible con miositis inflamatoria bilateral. En la RM abdominal, se observaron tres lesiones esplénicas no detectadas previamente y el fondo de ojo mostraba una lesión compatible con oclusión arterial retiniana o vasculitis. Se indicó tratamiento antibiótico por vía intravenosa durante 21 días con cefotaxima y cloxacilina, tras los cuales desaparecieron los signos y síntomas, aunque los reactantes inflamatorios persistieron elevados. Con base en el cuadro clínico (miositis + coriorretinitis + absceso esplénico) se pensó en una posible infección por B. henselae y se inició tratamiento oral con azitromicina y rifampicina durante 14 días. Luego del tratamiento, los valores de laboratorio fueron normales, así como la RM de control, y se constató una IgG positiva para la bacteria

Infectious myositis, whether viral or bacterial, is frequent in pediatric age. It causes muscle pain and weakness, associated with fever and general malaise. One cause is Bartonella henselae, responsible for cat scratch disease, which sometimes causes systemic symptoms. We report the case of an adolescent who came to the emergency room with intense myalgia, malaise, weight loss and splenomegaly. Blood tests showed high inflammatory markers. She had been in touch with a cat. Studies were carried out including: lower limbs MRI suggestive of bilateral inflammatory myositis, abdominal MRI with three previously undetected splenic lesions and dilated fundus examination that showed possible retinal arterial occlusion or vasculitis. After 21 days of intravenous antibiotic therapy (cefotaxime + cloxaciline), she became asymptomatic, but inflammatory markers remained high. Suspecting Bartonella henselaeinfection (myositis + chorioretinitis + splenic abscess), oral azithromycin and rifampicin were prescribed for 14 days. Blood tests and control MRI became normal, and IgG was positive.

[Bartonella henselae myositis: case report in an adolescent]. / Miositis por Bartonella henselae: caso clínico en una adolescente.

Infectious myositis, whether viral or bacterial, is frequent in pediatric age. It causes muscle pain and weakness, associated with fever and general malaise. One cause is Bartonella henselae, responsible for cat scratch disease, which sometimes causes systemic symptoms. We report the case of an adolescent who came to the emergency room with intense myalgia, malaise, weight loss and splenomegaly. Blood tests showed high inflammatory markers. She had been in touch with a cat. Studies were carried out including: lower limbs MRI suggestive of bilateral inflammatory myositis, abdominal MRI with three previously undetected splenic lesions and dilated fundus examination that showed possible retinal arterial occlusion or vasculitis. After 21 days of intravenous antibiotic therapy (cefotaxime + cloxaciline), she became asymptomatic, but inflammatory markers remained high. Suspecting Bartonella henselae infection (myositis + chorioretinitis + splenic abscess), oral azithromycin and rifampicin were prescribed for 14 days. Blood tests and control MRI became normal, and IgG was positive.

La miositis de origen vírico o bacteriano es frecuente en la edad pediátrica. Causa dolor muscular y debilidad, con fiebre y malestar general. Una causa es la infección por Bartonella henselae, bacteria implicada en la enfermedad por arañazo de gato que, a veces, causa afectación multisistémica. Se presenta el caso de una adolescente que acudió al servicio de urgencias por mialgia intensa, malestar, adelgazamiento y esplenomegalia. En el labortorio se observaron parámetros inflamatorios elevados. Refería contacto con un gato. Entre los estudios realizados, la resonancia magnética (RM) de miembros inferiores mostró una imagen compatible con miositis inflamatoria bilateral. En la RM abdominal, se observaron tres lesiones esplénicas no detectadas previamente y el fondo de ojo mostraba una lesión compatible con oclusión arterial retiniana o vasculitis. Se indicó tratamiento antibiótico por vía intravenosa durante 21 días con cefotaxima y cloxacilina, tras los cuales desaparecieron los signos y síntomas, aunque los reactantes inflamatorios persistieron elevados. Con base en el cuadro clínico (miositis + coriorretinitis + absceso esplénico) se pensó en una posible infección por B. henselae y se inició tratamiento oral con azitromicina y rifampicina durante 14 días. Luego del tratamiento, los valores de laboratorio fueron normales, así como la RM de control, y se constató una IgG positiva para la bacteria.

Quiste epitelial esplénico gigante, características morfológicas y evolución postoperatoria: reporte de un caso / Epithelial splenic cyst. Morphological characteristics and postoperative evolution: case report

RESUMEN: Los quistes primarios del bazo (QPB), son lesiones poco frecuentes en patología quirúrgica; los mayores de 5 cm o sintomáticos deben ser tratados quirúrgicamente para evitar el riesgo de complicaciones. Se debe realizar un examen histopatológico para confirmar el subtipo de quiste esplénico y descartar una eventual transformación maligna del revestimiento epitelial pluripotencial. El objetivo de este manuscrito fue reportar un caso de QPB intervenido quirúrgicamente y revisar la evidencia existente respecto de sus características morfológicas, terapéuticas y pronósticas. Caso clínico: Se trata de una mujer de 18 años (MAC), que consultó por distensión abdominal progresiva, de varios meses de evolución. La tomografía abdominal reveló la existencia de una masa heterogénea de 21 cm de diámetro mayor, en relación con el colon transverso y la curva mayor gástrica. El examen intraoperatorio reveló una masa sólido-quística que surgía del mesocolon transverso. La cirugía consistió en la esplenectomía y exéresis en bloque del tumor. La paciente evolucionó de forma satisfactoria, dándose de alta al quinto día del postoperatorio. El diagnóstico de quiste epitelial esplénicose estableció en base al examen patológico de la pieza quirúrgica. Cursando su 6º mes postoperatorio sin inconvenientes. Se realizó control tomográfico, que permitió verificar un bazo supernumerario funcionante.

SUMMARY: Primary splenic cysts (PSC) are rare lesions in surgical pathology; those symptomatic, or greater than 5 cm, should be treated surgically to avoid the risk of complications. A histopathological examination should be performed to confirm the splenic cyst subtype and rule out a possible malignant transformation of the pluripotential epithelial lining. The aim of this manuscript was to report a case of PSC who had undergone surgery and to review the existing evidence regarding its morphological, therapeutic and prognostic characteristics. An 18- year-old woman (MAC), consulted for progressive abdominal distention of several months of evolution. Abdominal tomography revealed the existence of a large heterogeneous mass, 21 cm in diameter, in relation to the transverse colon and the greater gastric curve. Intraoperative examination revealed a solid cystic mass arising from the transverse mesocolon. Surgery consisted of splenectomy and in-block excision of the tumor. The patient evolved satisfactorily and was discharged on the fifth postoperative day. Diagnosis of epithelial splenic cyst was established based on the pathological examination of the surgical specimen. At six months postoperative the patient had evolved satisfactorily without complications. Following abdominal tomography control a functioning supernumerary spleen was confirmed.

Os preditores da mortalidade em esplenectomias não traumáticas / The predictors of mortality in non-traumatic splenectomies

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: There are quite a few studies examining prognostic factors in non-traumatic splenectomies compared to traumatic ones. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the predictors of mortality in patients who underwent splenectomy for non-traumatic spleen diseases. METHODS: Medical records of the patients, who had undergone total splenectomy for non-traumatic spleen diseases at a tertiary center between January 2009 and December 2019, were retrospectively reviewed. Exclusion criteria included patients younger than 18 years of age, partial splenectomies, splenectomies applied to facilitate surgery for malignancy on contiguous organs, and splenectomies performed during liver transplantation. Iatrogenic splenic injuries were regarded as trauma and these cases were also excluded. RESULTS: The current study included 98 patients. Nine (9.2%) patients died. In univariate analysis, age, the presence of hematological neoplasia, hematocrit, hemoglobin, white blood cell counts, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, indications for splenectomy, application of emergency surgery, surgical technique, and transfusion of blood components were all significantly associated with mortality. In multivariate analysis, the presence of hematological malignancy [P=0.072; OR=7.17; (CI: 0.386-61.56)], the application of emergency surgery [P=0.035; OR=8.33; (CI: 1.165-59.595)] and leukocytosis [P=0.057; OR=1.136; (CI: 0.996-1.296)] were found to be positively associated with mortality. CONCLUSION: Hematologic neoplasia, emergency surgery, and leukocytosis were the independent predictors of mortality in patients, who were operated on for non-traumatic spleen diseases. A thorough preoperative evaluation, early therapeutic intervention, and advanced surgical techniques are important and can serve to minimize complications and mortality in case of inevitable splenectomy. Immunological research can provide new therapeutic opportunities that may impact positively on patients by minimizing morbidity and mortality.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: Há alguns estudos que examinam fatores prognósticos em esplenectomias não traumáticas em comparação com os traumáticos. OBJETIVO: Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os preditores de mortalidade em pacientes submetidos à esplenectomia para doenças do baço não traumático. MÉTODOS: Os prontuários dos pacientes, submetidos à esplenectomia total não traumática para doenças do baço em um centro terciário entre janeiro de 2009 e dezembro de 2019, foram revisados retrospectivamente. Os critérios de exclusão incluíram pacientes menores de 18 anos, esplenectomias parciais, esplenectomias aplicadas para facilitar a cirurgia para a malignidade em órgãos contíguos e esplenectomias realizadas durante o transplante hepático. As lesões esplênicas iatrogênicas foram consideradas trauma e esses casos também foram excluídos. RESULTADOS: O presente estudo incluiu 98 pacientes. Nove (9,2%) pacientes morreram. Na análise univariada, idade, presença de neoplasia hematológica, hematócrito, hemoglobina, contagem de glóbulos brancos, razão entre neutrófilos-linfócitos, indicações de esplenectomia, aplicação de cirurgia de emergência, técnica cirúrgica e transfusão de componentes sanguíneos foram significativamente associadas à mortalidade. Na análise multivariada, a presença de malignidade hematológica [P=0,072; OR=7,17; (IC: 0,386-61,56)], aplicação de cirurgia de emergência [P=0,035; OR=8,33; (IC: 1,165-59,595)] e leucocitose [P=0,057; OR=1,136; (IC: 0,996-1,296)] verificou-se que estão positivamente associados à mortalidade. CONCLUSÃO: Neoplasia hematológica, cirurgia de emergência e leucocitose foram os preditores independentes da mortalidade em pacientes, operados por doenças não traumáticas do baço. Uma avaliação pré-operatória minuciosa, intervenção terapêutica precoce e técnicas cirúrgicas avançadas são importantes e podem servir para minimizar complicações e mortalidade em caso de inevitável esplenectomia. Pesquisas imunológicas podem fornecer novas oportunidades terapêuticas que podem impactar positivamente nos pacientes, minimizando a morbidade e a mortalidade.

Primary splenic angiosarcoma: a rare entity often associated with rupture and hemoperitoneum.

Primary splenic angiosarcoma (PSA) is a rare neoplasm of vascular origin associated with aggressive behavior and poor prognosis. The clinical presentation is usually non-specific and is mostly characterized by a wasting disease with anemia and splenomegaly, mimicking a wide range of entities. The authors present the case of an 80-year-old woman with cardiovascular comorbidities with a 6-month history of weight loss, fatigue, weakness, pallor, and abdominal pain. The physical examination showed massive splenomegaly and pallor. After a thorough evaluation that ruled out lymphoproliferative diseases, the working diagnosis was a myelodysplastic disorder. A few days after discharge, she returned to the emergency room with severe abdominal pain, worsening fatigue, and a remarkable pallor. Point-of-care ultrasound showed free intraperitoneal fluid. Spleen rupture was confirmed by abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan, and an emergency laparotomy with splenectomy was performed. The postoperative period was uneventful, and the patient recovered in a few days. The histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of PSA and the patient was referred to an oncological center. Two months later staging CT demonstrated liver and peritoneal metastases, and despite the chemotherapy she died 6 months after the diagnosis.

Primary splenic angiosarcoma: a rare entity often associated with rupture and hemoperitoneum

Primary splenic angiosarcoma (PSA) is a rare neoplasm of vascular origin associated with aggressive behavior and poor prognosis. The clinical presentation is usually non-specific and is mostly characterized by a wasting disease with anemia and splenomegaly, mimicking a wide range of entities. The authors present the case of an 80-year-old woman with cardiovascular comorbidities with a 6-month history of weight loss, fatigue, weakness, pallor, and abdominal pain. The physical examination showed massive splenomegaly and pallor. After a thorough evaluation that ruled out lymphoproliferative diseases, the working diagnosis was a myelodysplastic disorder. A few days after discharge, she returned to the emergency room with severe abdominal pain, worsening fatigue, and a remarkable pallor. Point-of-care ultrasound showed free intraperitoneal fluid. Spleen rupture was confirmed by abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan, and an emergency laparotomy with splenectomy was performed. The postoperative period was uneventful, and the patient recovered in a few days. The histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of PSA and the patient was referred to an oncological center. Two months later staging CT demonstrated liver and peritoneal metastases, and despite the chemotherapy she died 6 months after the diagnosis

Trombosis espleno-portal no cirrótica, no tumoral y policitemia vera: una asociación poco frecuente / Non-cirrhotic Splenic-portal Thrombosis, non-tumoral Polycitemia Vera: an Infrequent Association

La policitemia vera se incluye dentro del grupo de las neoplasias mieloproliferativas crónicas. Tiene una incidencia inferior a 2,5 de cada 100 000 personas. Las formas trombóticas de presentación representan solo entre el 10-15 % de casos. La trombosis del eje espleno-portal no asociada a cirrosis o neoplasias tiene una prevalencia inferior a 5 por cada 10000 habitantes, entre el 17-53 % se asocian a algún tipo de síndrome mieloproliferativo primario. Se presenta el caso de una paciente de 70 años de edad que acudió debido a dolor abdominal de 15 días de evolución. El ultrasonido abdominal mostró en el hígado un marcado aumento de la ecogenicidad hacia las paredes de las estructuras vasculares, compatible con extensas áreas de trombosis del eje espleno-portal, corroborado luego por tomografía por contraste. La biopsia de médula ósea concluyó una hiperplasia de las tres series, la determinación de la mutación JAK2V617F resultó positiva. La baja incidencia de la policitemia vera y la forma inusual de mostrarse como una trombosis del sistema espleno-portal motivó a la presentación de este caso.

Polycitemia vera is included in the group chronic mieloproliferative neoplasias. It has an incidence below 2.5 every 100 000 people. The thrombotic forms represent only between 10.15 % of the cases. Splenic-portal thrombosis not associated to cirrhosis or neoplasias have an incidence below 5 every 10000 inhabitants, between 17-53 % are associated to any type of primary mieloproliferative syndrome. A case of a 70 year old patient who came to the doctor complainig of an abdominal pain of 15 day duration. Abdominal ultrasound showed a markedly ecogenic liver towards vascular structures, compatible with extensive thrombotic areas of the splenic-portal axis, corroborated later by contrast tomography. Bone morrow biopsy concluded a three series hyperplasia, the determination of JAK2V617F mutation was positive. The low incidence of polycitemia vera and its unusual way of presenting as thromobosis of splenic-portal system motivated the presentation of this case.

Absceso esplénico: ¿drenaje percutáneo o esplenectomía? / Splenic abscess: percutaneous drainage or splenectomy?

El absceso esplénico es una entidad poco común, su incidencia es de 0,2 a 0,7 %. El trabajo diagnóstico temprano y el tratamiento oportuno han permitido un mayor número de resultados exitosos. El tratamiento convencional ha sido la esplenectomía; sin embargo, por la importancia inmunológica del bazo y la morbimortalidad del tratamiento quirúrgico, hay una tendencia al tratamiento médico y de menor invasión. En este artículo se presenta una revisión narrativa del problema con base en la literatura médica con mayor 'evidencia', se discuten las diferentes alternativas de tratamiento y se concluye que el tratamiento debe individualizarse a cada paciente. El drenaje percutáneo es la primera línea de tratamiento; si este fracasa, debe considerarse la esplenectomía. Aunque con tiempos quirúrgicos más prolongados, la esplenectomía laparoscópica se asocia con una reducción significativa de la morbilidad posquirúrgica.

Splenic abscess is not a common entity, with an incidence of 0.2 to 0.7%. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment of this condition is associated with better outcomes. The conventional treatment for splenic abscess has been splenectomy; however, given its immunological importance and the morbidity associated with the procedure there is a tendency for less invasive treatment modalities. This article is a literature review that discusses the evidence behind the different treatment modalities available. Patient treatment should be individualized, but percutaneous drainage procedures can be regarded as the first option in most cases, Splenectomy should be the second line treatment. Laparoscopic splenectomy, although with longer intraoperative times, is associated with a significant reduction in postoperative complications.

Effects of inferior splenic lobe pole fixation and gastrosplenic peritoneal membrane section on the vitality of the remanent of subtotal splenectomy in rats

PURPOSE: To investigate the vitality of the spleen lower pole after subtotal splenectomy with suture to the stomach and after posterior peritoneal gastro-splenic membrane section, using macro and microscopic evaluations. METHODS: Sixty Wistar rats were used in this study and were randomly distributed in the three groups: Group 1: (n=20), subtotal splenectomy with lower pole preservation, Group 2: (n=20) subtotal splenectomy with lower pole preservation and suture to the stomach, Group 3: subtotal splenectomy with lower pole preservation and posterior peritoneal gastrosplenic ligament section. The animals were sacrificed 45 days after the surgery and the spleen lower poles were removed for macroscopic and microscopic examination. RESULTS: All animals in this series survived. No macroscopic differences were encountered between the groups. Microscopic evaluation observed statistic difference concerning fibrosis between group 1 and 3 (p≤0.05), but the analysis for necrosis and inflammation presented no differences. CONCLUSION: Vitality of the spleen lower pole after subtotal splenectomy is minimally modified when it is fixed to the stomach or when the posterior peritoneal gastrosplenic ligament is resected. .

Effects of inferior splenic lobe pole fixation and gastrosplenic peritoneal membrane section on the vitality of the remanent of subtotal splenectomy in rats

PURPOSE: To investigate the vitality of the spleen lower pole after subtotal splenectomy with suture to the stomach and after posterior peritoneal gastro-splenic membrane section, using macro and microscopic evaluations. METHODS: Sixty Wistar rats were used in this study and were randomly distributed in the three groups: Group 1: (n=20), subtotal splenectomy with lower pole preservation, Group 2: (n=20) subtotal splenectomy with lower pole preservation and suture to the stomach, Group 3: subtotal splenectomy with lower pole preservation and posterior peritoneal gastrosplenic ligament section. The animals were sacrificed 45 days after the surgery and the spleen lower poles were removed for macroscopic and microscopic examination. RESULTS: All animals in this series survived. No macroscopic differences were encountered between the groups. Microscopic evaluation observed statistic difference concerning fibrosis between group 1 and 3 (p0.05), but the analysis for necrosis and inflammation presented no differences. CONCLUSION: Vitality of the spleen lower pole after subtotal splenectomy is minimally modified when it is fixed to the stomach or when the posterior peritoneal gastrosplenic ligament is resected.(AU)

Abscesso esplênico: relato de caso / Splenic abscess: case report

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: O abscesso esplênico é uma doença rara, porém com um número crescente de casos publicados nos últimos anos. Geralmente, resulta de disseminação hematogênica, especialmente relacionada à endocardite, mas também pode ocorrer por contiguidade e relacionada a outros focos infecciosos.A grande maioria dos casos ocorre em pacientes imunossuprimidos. A doença é responsável por graves complicações e apresenta alto índice de mortalidade na ausência de terapêutica adequada. Oobjetivo deste estudo foi lembrar aos clínicos dessa possibilidade diagnóstica, que exige alto grau de suspeição, devido ao quadro clínico inespecífico. RELATO DO CASO: Paciente do sexo feminino, 44 anos, com quadro clínico de dor abdominal difusa, mais acentuada em flanco esquerdo com evolução de um mês e febre de 40º C com início há 5 dias. Previamente hígida, exceto por história de hipertensão arterial sistêmica, insuficiência cardíaca e prótese metálica em valva mitral. Ao exame encontrava-se em regular estado geral, desorientada,hipotensa, com depleção extracelular de 30%, afebril e eupneica. O abdômen era plano, flácido, doloroso à palpação em flanco esquerdo e hipogástrio e sem sinais de irritação peritoneal. Realizada tomografia computadorizada, que evidenciou imagem hipodensa no interior do baço. Diagnosticado abscesso esplênico,sendo tratada com esplenectomia e antibioticoterapia. CONCLUSÃO: Esse relato demonstrou que o abscesso esplênico pode ocorrer em pacientes imunocompetentes e sem outra fonte de infecção.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Splenic abscess is a rare disease, however the number of cases published in literature has increase in recent years. Generally, it appears after hematogenous dissemination, especially related with endocarditis, but can also occurby contiguity and related with other infections sites. The majorityof the cases happen in immunocompromised hosts. The disease is responsible for serious complications and has high mortality rate without appropriate treatment. The objective of this report was to remind doctors of this diagnostic, which needs a high degree of suspicion due its nonspecific clinical manifestation. CASE REPORT: Female patient, 44-years-old, with clinical symptoms of diffuse abdominal pain, more important in left flank,with one month of evolution, and 40º C fever that started withinfive days. Previously healthy, except for history of hypertension,cardiac failure and metallic prosthesis in the mitral valve. On examinationshe was in regular condition, disoriented, hypotensive, with extracellular depletion of 30%, afebrile and eupneic. The abdomen was flat, flaccid, painful to palpation in the left flank and hypogastric and without signs of peritoneal irritation. A CT scan was performed which showed a hypodense image on spleen. Diagnosed splenic abscess, the patient was treated with splenectomy and antimicrobial therapy. CONCLUSION: This report showed that splenic abscess may occurin immunocompetents patients without other source of infection.

Ojo de buey en tomografía hepática / The 'bull's eye' pattern in hepatic tomography

Las infecciones micóticas invasoras se presentan con mayor frecuencia en pacientes con neutropenia posterior al uso de quimioterapia para el tratamiento del cáncer. Se presenta una paciente de 4 años con diagnóstico de leucemia linfoide aguda, quien, luego de la quimioterapia, desarrolló neutropenia febril y diarrea. Recibió tratamiento antibiótico y antimicótico de amplio espectro. Se aisló Candida albicans y se observaron trofozoítos de Entamoeba histolytica en la materia fecal . La paciente desarrolló candidiosis crónica diseminada que fue tratada con anfotericina B y, posteriormente, con fluconazol. Se ilustra la imagen tomográfica conocida como 'ojo de buey' y su correspondiente estudio histopatológico. Candida spp. es la levadura más común en pacientes inmunosuprimidos con tumores hematológicos que reciben quimioterapia. La candidiosis diseminada que se presenta en estos pacientes persiste y se hace evidente clínicamente una vez se resuelve la neutropenia; se denomina candidiosis crónica diseminada. En la paciente se presentaron varios factores de riesgo, como el tratamiento previo con antibióticos de amplio espectro, la colonización del tracto gastrointestinal por Candida y la neutropenia prolongada. El diagnóstico por imagen se hace principalmente por ecografía, tomografía axial computarizada y resonancia magnética. Se han descrito cuatro patrones tanto ecográficos como tomográficos, de los cuales se destacan el tipo 1 ('ruedas entre ruedas') y el tipo 2 ('ojo de buey'), que son característicos de la candidiosis crónica diseminada. El tercer patrón (imágenes hipoecoicas), aunque no es específico de la candidiosis crónica diseminada, es el más comúnmente hallado en ambas técnicas. En la paciente se observaron los patrones 2 y 3, y el diagnóstico se confirmó con el estudio histopatológico.

Invasive fungal infections are more commonly found in patients who develop neutropenia after chemotherapy. A 4-year-old girl with diagnosis of acute lymphoid leukemia developed febrile neutropenia after chemotherapy. Broad spectrum antibiotics and antimycotic therapy were initiated. Candida albicans was isolated and Entamoeba histolytica was observed in stool examination. Chronic disseminated candidiasis had developed and was treated with amphotericin B, initially, and fluconazol. Computed tomography images were obtained that demonstrated a classic 'bull´s eye' pattern; a concurrent histological study confirmed the diagnosis. Candida spp. is the major cause of opportunistic mycosis in immunosuppresed patients receiving chemotherapy for haematologic malignancies. An initial infection results in disseminated candidiasis, which persists and becomes chronic. In the 4-year-old patient, the identified risk factors consisted of a previous therapy with broad spectrum antibiotics, the gastrointestinal tract colonization with Candida albicans and prolonged neutropenia. Imaging diagnoses are made by ultrasonography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance. With ultrasound and tomography, 4 distinct patterns have been described. Pattern 1 ('wheels within wheels') and 2 ('bull´s eye') are important, since they are characteristic of chronic disseminated candidiasis. The third pattern (hypoechoic image) is the most common finding with both techniques. In the current patient, patterns 2 and 3 were seen and the diagnosis was confirmed by histological study.