| Subject | Contents |
| Definition | A pus-filled cavity within the liver. |
| Alternative Names | Liver abscess; Bacterial liver abscess |
| Causes, incidence, and risk factors | There are many potential causes of liver abscesses. They can be caused by an abdominal infection such as appendicitis , diverticulitis , or a perforated bowel; an infection in the blood; an infection of the biliary (liver secretion) tract; or trauma where a bruised liver becomes infected. The most common bacteria that cause liver abscesses are Escherichia coli , Klebsiella , Enterococcus , staph and strep, and Bacteroides . |
| Symptoms | Fever , chills Nausea , vomiting Pain in right upper abdomen Loss of appetiteWeight lossWeakness Turning yellow ( jaundice ) Chalk-colored stool Dark urine |
| Signs and tests | Blood culture that is positive for bacteria; this happens in about half of the patients with pyogenic liver abscess. Occasionally elevated liver enzymes ( liver function tests ) and elevated bilirubin, which causes jaundice. Elevated white blood cell count, indicating infection. Abdominal CT scanAbdominal ultrasoundLiver biopsy |
| Treatment | The treatment usually consists of surgical or percutaneous (through the skin, with a needle) drainage of the abscess . This is accompanied by prolonged antibiotic therapy. Sometimes antibiotics alone can cure the infection. |
| Support Groups | |
| Expectations (prognosis) | The death rate is 10-30% in treated patients, and it is higher in those with multiple abscesses.
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| Complications | Life-threatening sepsis can develop. |
| Calling your health care provider | Call your health care provider if any symptoms of this disorder develop.
Also call if severe abdominal pain , confusion or decreased consciousness , persistent high fever , or other new symptoms develop during or after treatment. |
| Prevention | Prompt treatment of abdominal and other infections may reduce the risk of developing a liver abscess. Many cases are not preventable. |
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