title: Spontaneous splenic rupture due to Babesia microti infection: Case report and review of the literature.
abstract: This article describes the case of spontaneous splenic rupture as a rare complication of infection with Babesia species. We will discuss the symptomatology that this disease could present along with both surgical and non-surgical management approaches. Babesia infection often presents with mild to moderate symptoms, but can rapidly progress to significant injury including splenic rupture. The first case reported in a medical journal was in 2007. Treatment usually involves a two-drug regimen; clindamycin plus quinine, or atovaquone plus azithromycin (as in our patient). If hemodynamic stability is present, a primary non-surgical treatment may be especially beneficial since splenectomy may worsen optimal immunologic function and the infection itself.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, Danbury Hospital, Danbury, CT, United States.
authors.forename: Natalia
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Usatii
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, Danbury Hospital, Danbury, CT, United States.
authors.forename: Aelita
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Khachatrian
authors.affiliation: Infectious Diseases Department, Danbury Hospital, Danbury, CT, United States.
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Stratidis
keywords: Babesia; Polymerase chain reaction; Splenic rupture
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