Splenic abscess with spontaneous gastrosplenic fistula: case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Abstract Gastrosplenic fistula (GSF) is an unusual event that might occur in patients with various gastric or splenic diseases. While GSF related to gastric and splenic malignancies is well-documented in the literature, cases of GSF due to a splenic abscess are extremely rare. We experienced the case of a 49-year-old man with a medical history of tricuspid cardiac valve replacement for infective endocarditis who presented with a sudden onset of anemia and melena. With the assistance of imaging and endoscopy, a primary splenic abscess complicated by spontaneous GSF was diagnosed. A prompt splenectomy with partial gastrectomy was performed. GSF is a serious occurrence associated with a high risk of morbidity and mortality. The early recognition of GSF related to a splenic abscess is crucial to prevent major complications. Surgical resection with splenectomy and partial gastrectomy is frequently preferred for the treatment of large abscesses with GSF.