Signs of Liver abscess (Collection of pus)

Description

Infections from bacteria or amoeba may form a collection of infected fluid in the liver (abscess). The body tries to wall off this infected material causing the abscess to form. The bacterial infections lead to rapid generalized symptoms while those abscesses from amebiasis may develop more slowly. Liver abscesses can result in life threatening infections and death.

Symptoms

Fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, pain in right upper abdomen, loss of appetite, unintentional weight loss, weakness, yellow skin (jaundice), chalk-colored stool, dark urine.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood culture and/or culture of the abscess fluid will be done to identify the organism. A CT scan, MR scan and/or ultrasound will be done to identify the abscess. An aspiration of the abscess fluid may be done.

Standard Workup

CBC
Chem 12
Lipase
UA
CT Scan
MRI
Ultrasound

Treatment

The treatment depends on the size and location of the abscess. Most abscesses need to be drained and this will be performed through the skin (percutaneously) or surgically. Antibiotics will also be given. Rarely antibiotics alone will clear the infection.