Successful splenic artery embolization in a patient with Behçet’s syndrome-associated splenic rupture: A case report

Abstract

BACKGROUND

Splenic rupture associated with Behçet’s syndrome (BS) is extremely rare, and there is no consensus on its management. In this case report, a patient with BS-associated splenic rupture was successfully treated with splenic artery embolization (SAE) and had a good prognosis after the intervention.

CASE SUMMARY

The patient was admitted for pain in the left upper abdominal quadrant. He was diagnosed with splenic rupture. Multiple oral and genital aphthous ulcers were observed, and acne scars were found on his back. He had a 2-year history of BS diagnosis, with symptoms of oral and genital ulcers. At that time, he was treated with oral corticosteroids for 1 month, but the symptoms did not alleviate. He underwent SAE to treat the rupture. On the first day after SAE, the patient reported a complete resolution of abdominal pain and was discharged 5 d later. Three months after the intervention, a computed tomography examination showed that the splenic hematoma had formed a stable cystic effusion, suggesting a good prognosis.

CONCLUSION

SAE might be a good choice for BS-associated splenic rupture based on good surgical practice and material selection.

Keywords: Splenic artery embolization; Behçet’s syndrome; Splenic rupture; Case report

Core Tip: This study presents a case of splenic rupture associated with Behçet’s syndrome (BS). BS was confirmed using the International Criteria for Behçet’s Disease. The patient opted for splenic artery embolization (SAE) over splenectomy, resulting in successful hematoma control. The patient’s postoperative recovery was favorable, with no complications, suggesting the effectiveness of SAE in BS-associated splenic rupture management. These findings emphasize the significance of early BS diagnosis and the potential benefits of SAE in selected cases, contributing to the understanding and treatment of this rare but critical manifestation of BS.