Extra-pleural haematoma secondary to blunt chest trauma. An unusual presentation.

The case history is described of a young man who presented with an apparent splenic rupture following thoracic compression during a rugby tackle. The actual diagnosis was that of an extra-pleural haematoma following transection of the internal mammary artery. This case is discussed within the context of the rarity of such a presentation--both in the site of the haematoma and the cause of the transection; and the problems posed in making the initial diagnosis.