Traumatic adrenal haemorrhage secondary to blunt injury

Case Reports

Cheah Wai Hun,

Abstract

Adrenal gland injury secondary to blunt abdominal trauma is relatively uncommon. The estimated incidence rate of the injury is approximately 2–3%. The non-specific clinical manifestations and lack of specific biochemical markers make its diagnosis difficult. Contrast-enhanced CT remains the gold standard for detecting this injury and its associated complications. Patient with bilateral adrenal injury should be carefully monitored as they are prone to develop life-threatening adrenal insufficiency and its complications. Majority of these patients are managed conservatively and surgery is only required in cases of active bleeding. However follow-up is required to ensure complete resolution of the haemorrhage and to rule out a true adrenal mass. We report a case of unilateral adrenal haemorrhage secondary to motor vehicle accident.

Relevant Publications in Surgery: Case Report