Liver Abscesses

These flashcards cover key concepts, definitions, and important details regarding liver abscesses, focusing on types, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and complications.

Pyogenic liver abscess (PLA)

Solitary or multiple collections of pus within the liver, caused by bacteria.

Amebic liver abscess (ALA)

A liver abscess caused by the protozoan Entamoeba histolytica.

Gas-forming PLAs

Uncommon abscesses often associated with compromised immunity, presenting higher mortality rates than non-gas-forming PLAs.

Cryptogenic abscess

An abscess with no identifiable underlying cause.

Clinical presentation of ALA

Symptoms may include right upper quadrant pain, fever, and nausea; often found after travel to endemic areas.

Diagnosis of PLA

Includes lab studies showing leukocytosis, elevated liver function tests, and imaging studies like ultrasound and CT.

Treatment of PLAs

Involves complete drainage of pus and adequate antibiotic therapy to resolve the underlying cause.

Complications of PLA

Can include peritonitis, lung abscess, and systemic septic complications.

Underlying conditions for PLA

Conditions such as liver cirrhosis, diabetes mellitus, and immunosuppressed states can increase risk.

Microbiology of ALA

Common microorganisms include E. histolytica for amebic abscesses and various bacteria for pyogenic abscesses.