Spontaneous colonic mesenteric hemorrhage: Report of an unusual case of abdominal apoplexy

We describe a case of idiopathic abdominal apoplexy secondary to a spontaneous mesocolic bleed. Preoperative computed tomography of the abdomen suggested a ruptured colonic mass at the splenic flexure. The diagnosis was made when exploratory laparotomy revealed hemoperitoneum and an extensive hematoma in the transverse mesocolon, with no apparent source. Idiopathic abdominal apoplexy is rare, the reported mortality has historically been high, and a short hospital stay and rapid, complete recovery are uncommon, although outcomes may be improving in recent years. We present such a case and examine the clinical presentation, management, and prognosis through literature review.