Ruptured Splenic Abscess with Pneumoperitoneum: A Rare Presentation

Abstract

Splenic abscess is a rare entity encountered during clinical practice, with a high mortality rate. Formation of gas in splenic abscess is usually localized to the left upper quadrant of the abdomen. Here we report a case where the splenic abscess ruptured and presented with generalized peritonitis. The erect chest radiograph showed free air under the right dome of the diaphragm, thus masquerading a hollow viscera perforation (most common cause of pneumoperitoneum).