Splenic Infarction Due to Acute Malaria in a 10-Year-Old Girl

Abstract

Abstract Non-tender enlargement of the spleen is common in malaria; but splenic infarction is a rare complication. It is frequently masked under acute clinical condition. Until now only a few cases of splenic infarction in patients with falciparum malaria have been published. We describe a 10-year-old girl who presented with signs and symptoms of malaria along with tender massive splenomegaly and worsening pain in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen which was not responding to medications. Contrast enhanced CT scan of abdomen revealed massive splenic infarction. The patient underwent laparotomy and total splenectomy. Her postoperative course was uneventful.