SUDDEN ALTITUDE CHANGES AND THE RISK OF INCREASED BLOOD POTENTIAL
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Abstract
Background: Splenic infarction is a rare condition, typically associated with risk factors such as thrombotic disorders or trauma. Case report a 27-year-old male with no prior medical history who developed splenic infarction following a cable car ascent to Fansipan peak (3,143 m). The patient experienced severe left hypochondrial pain and vomiting. Initially, a non-contrast computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen revealed no abnormalities. However, as symptoms worsened, a contrast-enhanced CT confirmed splenic infarction. Laboratory tests showed thrombocytopenia (75 x 10^9/L) and elevated D-dimer, suggestive of thrombosis. The patient was treated with anticoagulants and anti-inflammatory drugs, achieving clinical improvement within 7 days. This case raises questions about the role of rapid altitude changes and temperature variations in promoting thrombosis. Conclusion: The report emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and timely treatment in managing atypical thrombotic events related to high-altitude exposure.
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Keywords
Splenic infarction, thrombosis, rapid altitude ascent, computed tomography, anticoagulation therapy
References
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