Torsion of huge wandering accessory spleen. Case report and review of literature.

INTRODUCTION: Accessory spleens are found in 10-15% of the population, and are even more prevalent in patients with hematological disorders (Rudowski, 1985). It infrequently may become symptomatic due to torsion, spontaneous rupture or hemorrhage which may lead to death. Torsion of an accessory spleen is extremely rare, and requires prompt medical attention [2] (Coote et al., 1999).

PRESENTATION OF CASE: We report the case of a 27-year-old Mediterranean lady with thalassemia trait, who presented to the emergency department with an acute surgical abdomen due to torsion of a giant accessory spleen, measuring 13cm. She was diagnosed with the aid of ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) scan and was treated surgically through resection of the spleen.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Torsion of an accessory spleen is not common, and is the surgical indication in about 0.2-0.3% of splenectomies (Mortele et al., 2004). It has variable clinical presentations, and is a difficult preoperative diagnosis due to lack of specificity of symptoms. Accessory spleens are usually smaller than 3cm, with few cases being reported as larger than 10cm larger accessory spleens have a higher rate of torsion. Knowledge of this pathology, and familiarity with its radiological findings are fundamental to accurately diagnosing and manageming this challenging condition.