Splenic abscess in an immune competent individual: case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Splenic abscess is a rarity in immune competent individuals. Salmonella, Pasteurella multocida, M. tuberculosis and actinomycosis have been implicated. A 63-year old immune competent female with an arab descent presented with fever, nausea and vomiting. Polymorph leucocytosis, high ESR and markedly high C-reactive protein (CRP) were reported. Chest x-ray and CT scan pointed to the diagnosis. She was managed uneventfully by splenectomy. Enterobacter Spp was grown from operative samples. The patient was well and asymptomatic when seen six months post-operatively. Splenic abscess should be considered even in the absence of co- morbidities in individuals with fever, non-specific abdominal symptoms, polymorphs leucocytosis and high CRP.