RUPTURED SPLENIC ARTERY ANEURYSM IN PREGNANCY - 12TH REPORTED CASE WITH MATERNAL AND FETAL SURVIVAL

Ruptured splenic artery aneurysm during pregnancy is a rare event with catastrophic consequences. This presentation is the twelfth case duri ng pregnancy reporting survival of both mother and fetus. The literatu re reports a 25% mortality rate for ruptured splenic artery aneurysm. The mortality rate among pregnant women is disproportionately high at 75% with a fetal mortality rate of 95%. Gestational alterations that i ncrease with parity are significant in the pathophysiologic characteri stics of this condition. A unique double-rupture phenomenon may provid e temporary tamponade with resolution of symptoms. A diagnosis of rupt ured splenic artery aneurysm should be considered in any pregnant pati ent who complains of the sudden onset of severe left upper-abdominal p ain regardless of whether pain or shock is prominent at the time of ev aluation. Early consideration of a diagnosis of ruptured splenic arter y aneurysm significantly increases the likelihood that the mother and fetus will survive.