Splenic rupture as a complication of P-falciparum malaria after residence in the tropics. Report of two cases.

Splenic rupture is an uncommon complication of malaria, which requires urge nt medical investigation, close follow-up and adequate treatment. Until pre sent, this complication was reported more often in P. vivax infections than in infections with other species. Rupture can happen spontaneously or as a result of trauma, which may be min or and unnoticed. The diagnosis is made by physical examination, ultrasound and CT-scan. Especially in malaria endemic areas the management of splenic rupture in ma laria should be focused on splenic preservation. We describe two cases of s plenic rupture during a P. falciparum infection, both requiring finally spl enectomy.