Splenic infarction in a 12-year-old female leading to the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus

Splenic infarction is less a distinct entity, but rather a symptom of an underlying disorder. Common etiologies include hypercoagulable states, infection, and oncologic and rheumatologic diseases. Patients with splenic infarctions are more likely to have longer hospital stays and higher mortality. This case is a reminder that a practitioner should consider hospitalization and further evaluation when splenic infarction is diagnosed, as this can be a signal of serious systemic disease.