Splenic abscess: presentation, treatment options, and results

Abstract

Pyogenic splenic abscess is a rare condition that tends to occur in patients with predisposing factors. The use of splenectomy or computed tomography-guided percutaneous drainage in 10 patients with splenic abscess is presented. In 8 of 10 cases, the diagnosis was based on abdominal computed tomography scan. Seven of 10 patients were treated with splenectomy, and 3 were managed with computed tomography-guided drainage. Abscess cultures included Escherichia coli, Enterobacter, Streptococcus viridans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacteroides fragilis. There were two morbidities and one death in the splenectomy group and no complications in those treated with percutaneous drainage. This review suggests a flexible approach in the management of splenic abscess. Although splenectomy remains the traditional treatment for bacterial splenic abscess, CT-guided drainage may be appropriate in carefully selected patients.