Hepatic abscess (liver collection of pus)
About Hepatic abscess (liver collection of pus)
A collection of pus in the liver. The most common causes of the infection include bacteria and amoeba (Entamoeba histolytica). One way bacteria enter the liver is spread of infection from a diseased gallbladder. In addition, organisms may travel through the blood stream and settle in the liver developing into an abscess.Symptoms
Pain in the right upper abdomen, chest pain with a deep breath, fever, fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests include: blood tests to measure the extent of liver damage, and cultures of blood and abscess fluid. If an amoeba is suspected stool tests may be performed. Abdominal CT scan, ultrasound, and/or MRI may be performed to identify the abscess.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, MRI, Ultrasound.
Conventional treatment summary
Drainage of the abscess with a catheter inserted through the skin which is guided by a CT scan or ultrasound. Sometimes surgery is recommended. Intravenous antibiotics will be provided for bacterial causes of liver abscess while oral antibiotics may suffice for amebic abscess.Medical specialties
Gastroenterology · Pediatric Gastroenterology · Infectious Disease Medicine · Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Hepatic abscess (liver collection of pus).