Disseminated infection with Bartonella henselae as a cause of spontaneous splenic rupture.

A 65-year-old man developed massive hemoperitoneum secondary to spontaneous splenic rupture. Histopathological analysis of the spleen demonstrated necrotizing granulomas. Results of serological tests indicated infection with a species of Bartonella, and immunohistochemical staining established Bartonella henselae as the cause of splenitis. To our knowledge, this represents the first reported case of spontaneous splenic rupture caused by infection with a species of Bartonella.