title: Splenic abscess.
abstract: Abscess of the spleen is a rare entity. It may develop after generalized infection, hematologic disorders and trauma. The authors report the case of a 7-year-old boy who presented with a 2-month history of spiking fever, anorexia, fatigue and weight loss. He had left subcostal tenderness and a palpable spleen. He had a history of trauma to the left flank 5 months before admission but a splenic scan obtained at that time appeared normal. A splenic abscess was diagnosed by gallium scanning, computerized tomography and ultrasonography. Although splenectomy has been advocated as the treatment of choice for splenic abscess, this patient was treated successfully with appropriate antibiotics and simple drainage, preserving the spleen. Cultures grew Staphylococcus aureus. Of all the diagnostic methods available, ultrasonography is the least invasive study that will make the diagnosis and is less expensive than some methods.
mesh_terms: D000038:Abscess / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000188:drug therapy; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D013158:Splenic Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000188:drug therapy; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014463:Ultrasonography
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents