Spontaneous Splenic Rupture in a Patient With Recent Use of Performance-Enhancing Compounds: A Case Report and Literature Review.
This case underscores the potential risks of using performance-enhancing compounds like MK-677 and RAD-140, particularly concerning splenic complications. Clinicians should be aware of these risks when evaluating patients with acute abdominal pain.
Where it sits
this study against the rest of the mk-677 (ibutamoren) corpusSummary and findings
This case report describes a 54-year-old male who experienced atraumatic splenic rupture after recent use of MK-677 (ibutamoren) and RAD-140 (testolone). The patient underwent splenic artery embolization followed by emergency laparotomy and total splenectomy. Histopathological findings indicated large areas of splenic infarction.
Abstract
Atraumatic splenic rupture (ASR) is a rare but life-threatening surgical emergency that most commonly occurs in pathologically abnormal spleens. We present a unique case of ASR in a middle-aged man with recent use of performance-enhancing compounds, managed with both embolization and surgery. This case highlights an unusual potential contributing risk factor and underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis and definitive management of ASR. A 54-year-old male presented to the emergency department with acute left upper quadrant abdominal pain and vomiting. Notably, he had recently been using MK-677 (ibutamoren), a growth hormone secretagogue, and RAD-140 (testolone), a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM), for bodybuilding purposes. The patient denied any history of trauma. Computed tomography revealed a large perisplenic hematoma consistent with splenic rupture. Following initial resuscitation, emergent splenic artery embolization was performed to control hemorrhage. This intervention stabilized the patient transiently; however, he ultimately required an emergency laparotomy with total splenectomy. Histopathological examination demonstrated large areas of splenic infarction, with features raising the possibility of an underlying vascular malformation. These findings underscore the importance of recognising ASR in patients with acute abdominal pain and vascular risk factors. We explore the potential and speculative role of performance-enhancing compounds in precipitating splenic complications, drawing parallels to the established association between traditional anabolic steroids and peliosis - blood-filled vascular cavities that predispose to rupture. While RAD-140 and MK-677 have not been previously linked to splenic pathology, their pharmacological effects on androgen receptor signalling and IGF-1 pathways warrant consideration as possible contributing factors, particularly in the context of a suspected pre-existing vascular malformation. Early recognition, aggressive resuscitation, and timely surgical intervention remain critical, as delayed diagnosis carries significant mortality.
Background
This paper addresses the clinical implications of using performance-enhancing compounds, particularly MK-677, and their potential adverse effects. Prior literature has documented various risks associated with such substances, but spontaneous splenic rupture is a rare and serious complication. Understanding these risks is crucial for practitioners who may encounter patients using these compounds.
Methods
Not reported in abstract.
Results
Not reported in abstract.
Interpretation
This case adds to the body of evidence regarding the risks associated with performance-enhancing compounds, including MK-677. However, due to the nature of the report, it is difficult to draw definitive conclusions about the compound's role in the adverse event. The lack of statistical analysis and control groups limits the ability to generalize findings.
Key findings
- Spontaneous splenic rupture occurred in a 29-year-old male patient after recent use of performance-enhancing compounds.
- Not reported in abstract.
- Not reported in abstract.
Limitations
- Case report, limits generalizability.
- No control group or statistical analysis.
- Specific impact of MK-677 not established.