Ruptured arteriosclerotic aneurysm of the splenic artery.

A case of arteriosclerotic aneurysm of the splenic artery with rupture into the transverse colon resulting in secondary perforation of the cecum is presented. Symptomatology, diagnosis and treatment of aneurysms of the splenic artery are briefly illustrated. Aneurysm of the splenic artery must be suspected by the presence of uncharacteristic upper abdominal pain and the annular calcification in the left upper quadrant on roentgenogram. The diagnosis is verified by arteriography. Operation of all symptomatic splenic artery aneurysms is recommended. Asymptomatic aneurysms measuring more than 3 cm in diameter and aneurysms with radiographic evidence of enlargement, should be operated too.