What is one consequence of a ruptured spleen?

A ruptured spleen can lead to severe internal bleeding, which is one of the most critical consequences. The spleen is a highly vascular organ, meaning it contains a significant amount of blood. When it ruptures, blood can spill into the abdominal cavity, leading to hypovolemia (a lower than normal blood volume) and potentially causing shock. This situation often necessitates surgical intervention, such as splenectomy (surgical removal of the spleen), to control the bleeding and manage complications.

While decreased blood pressure can result from the severe bleeding associated with a ruptured spleen, this is a secondary effect and not the primary consequence. Increased white blood cell production and blood clotting disorders are not direct outcomes of a ruptured spleen; instead, they are conditions that could arise from other factors or diseases.