April 23, 2014,
Pyogenic Liver Abscess
Pyogenic liver abscess is a pus-filled area in the liver.
Back to TopAlternative Names
Liver abscess; Bacterial liver abscess
Back to TopCauses
There are many potential causes of liver abscesses, including:
- Abdominal infection such as appendicitis, diverticulitis, or a perforated bowel
- Infection in the blood
- Infection of the bile draining tubes
- Recent endoscopy of the bile draining tubes
- Trauma that damages the liver
The most common bacteria that cause liver abscesses are:
- Escherichia coli
- Klebsiella pneumoniae
- Staphylococcus aureus
In most cases, more than one type of bacteria is found.
Back to TopTreatment
Treatment usually consists of placing a tube through the skin to drain the abscess. Less often, surgery is required. You will also receive antibiotics for about 4 - 6 weeks. Sometimes, antibiotics alone can cure the infection.
Back to TopOutlook (Prognosis)
This condition can be life threatening some patients. The risk for death is higher in people who have many liver abscesses.
Back to TopPrevention
Prompt treatment of abdominal and other infections may reduce the risk of developing a liver abscess. Many cases are not preventable.
Back to TopReferences
Reddy KR. Bacterial, parasitic, fungal and granulomatous liver diseases. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Cecil Medicine . 24th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 360.
Sifri CD, Madoff LC. Infections of the liver and biliary system. In: Mandell GL, Bennett JE, Dolin R, eds. Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases . 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone;2009:chap 72.
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