07 February 2019 : Case report
Spontaneous Rectus Sheath Hematoma: An Uncommon Cause of Acute Abdominal Pain
Challenging differential diagnosis, Rare disease
Abdelhamid Ben Selma1BDEF*, Thomas Genese1EDOI: 10.12659/AJCR.913246
Am J Case Rep 2019; 20:163-166
Abstract
BACKGROUND: A clinical condition that is often misdiagnosed, rectus sheath hematoma (RSH) is usually seen in the context of blunt abdominal trauma and/or anticoagulation therapy, rarely occurring spontaneously. We present a case of spontaneous rectus sheath hematoma (SRSH) without obvious risk factors and review the literature regarding diagnosis modalities and management. The aim of this case presentation is to highlight this rare clinical condition and emphasize the role of the physical exam in determining the appropriate treatment approach.
CASE REPORT: A 50-year-old woman presented to the emergency room with right-sided pelvic pain for one day. Her medical history was specifically notable for recent coughing due to acute bronchitis, as well as the use of NSAIDs. Physical examination revealed marked tenderness in the hypogastric and right lower quadrant, with guarding and fullness in the same area. Laboratory investigation showed mild anemia and normal coagulation tests. Computed tomography demonstrated a right rectus muscle hematoma measuring 8.5×8.5 cm and extending into the lower abdomen and the extraperitoneal space, without active contrast extravasation. Close monitoring of vital signs and hemoglobin hematocrit levels along with supportive care with fluid resuscitation and pain control were initiated and the patient remained stable throughout her hospital stay.
CONCLUSIONS: Prompt recognition and management of SRSH are crucial. Physical examination is a key part of this process and imaging is the mainstay of diagnosis. Management remains for the most part supportive, although surgery or vascular embolization is required for uncontrolled hematomas with hemodynamic instability.
Keywords: Abdominal Pain, Hematoma, Patient Care Management, Rectus Abdominis, Bronchitis, Cough, Muscular Diseases, Tomography, X-Ray Computed
In Press
19 Mar 2024 : Case report
Bilateral Simultaneous Basal Ganglia Hemorrhage: A Case ReportAm J Case Rep In Press; DOI: 10.12659/AJCR.943174
19 Mar 2024 : Case report
Medial Hoffa Fracture: A Case Report and Literature Review of Approach and ManagementAm J Case Rep In Press; DOI: 10.12659/AJCR.943136
21 Mar 2024 : Case report
Pediatric Neurogenic Pulmonary Edema After Brain Tumor Removal Complicated with Severe Myocardial Injury: A...Am J Case Rep In Press; DOI: 10.12659/AJCR.943645
21 Mar 2024 : Case report
Chlamydia psittaci Pneumonia: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Challenges in the Context of COVID-19Am J Case Rep In Press; DOI: 10.12659/AJCR.942921
Most Viewed Current Articles
07 Mar 2024 : Case report
Neurocysticercosis Presenting as Migraine in the United StatesDOI :10.12659/AJCR.943133
Am J Case Rep 2024; 25:e943133
10 Jan 2022 : Case report
A Report on the First 7 Sequential Patients Treated Within the C-Reactive Protein Apheresis in COVID (CACOV...DOI :10.12659/AJCR.935263
Am J Case Rep 2022; 23:e935263
19 Jul 2022 : Case report
Atlantoaxial Subluxation Secondary to SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Rare Orthopedic Complication from COVID-19DOI :10.12659/AJCR.936128
Am J Case Rep 2022; 23:e936128
23 Feb 2022 : Case report
Penile Necrosis Associated with Local Intravenous Injection of CocaineDOI :10.12659/AJCR.935250
Am J Case Rep 2022; 23:e935250