Ruptured splenic abscess and splenic vein thrombosis secondary to melioidosis: A case report

Abstract

Rationale: Burkholderia pseudomallei is a Gram-negative bacterium and the causative pathogen of melioidosis, which manifests with a broad spectrum of clinical syndromes. Melioidosis is associated with high mortality and is endemic across tropical areas, especially in Southeast Asia and northern Australia. Patient concern: A 24-year-old diabetic male complained of fever and left upper quadrant abdominal pain for one-week duration. Diagnosis: Melioidosis with ruptured splenic abscess and splenic vein thrombosis. Interventions: Antimicrobial therapy (intensive therapy: intravenous ceftazidime, eradication therapy: oral trimethoprim- sulfamethoxazole), and anti-coagulation (enoxaparin, then warfarin). Outcomes: Resolution of splenic abscess and splenic vein thrombosis. Lessons: Both splenic abscess and splenic vein thrombosis are uncommon but severe complications associated with melioidosis. Ultrasound is useful for diagnosis and monitoring response to treatment in such cases.

Keywords

• melioidosis; splenic abscess; splenic vein thrombosis; burkholderia pseudomallei