The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Liver Abscesses

Infectious purulent collections within the liver parenchyma.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Liver Abscesses?

Liver abscesses are infected fluid collections that form in the liver parenchyma. They may be pyogenic (bacterial), amebic, or, rarely, fungal in origin. Pyogenic abscesses are the most common type and are typically polymicrobial.

Sources of infection include the biliary system (most common), portal vein, hepatic artery, contiguous spread, and trauma. Appendicitis, diverticulitis, and cholangitis are important predisposing factors.

Patients present with fever, right upper quadrant pain, malaise, and weight loss. Diagnosis uses ultrasound, CT, and blood cultures. Treatment consists of broad-spectrum antibiotics, percutaneous catheter drainage, and surgical drainage when needed.

Symptoms

Fever and chills
Right upper quadrant pain
Malaise and weight loss
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Hepatomegaly
Jaundice (rare)

Risk Factors

Biliary tract disease
Diabetes
Immunosuppression
History of abdominal surgery
Intra-abdominal infections
Parasitic infections
Alcoholism

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Prolonged fever
  • Right upper quadrant pain
  • Signs of sepsis
  • Symptoms together with biliary tract disease
  • Fever in immunosuppressed patients

Treatment Methods

01
Broad-spectrum antibiotics
02
Percutaneous catheter drainage
03
Imaging-guided aspiration
04
Blood and abscess culture
05
Metronidazole (in amebic abscess)
06
Surgical drainage (selected cases)
07
Treatment of the underlying cause

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Genel Cerrahi Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Appendicitis

Genel Cerrahi

Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix causing severe pain in the lower right abdomen. Early diagnosis and surgical treatment are life-saving.

Inguinal Hernia

Genel Cerrahi

Inguinal hernia is the protrusion of intestine or fat into the inguinal canal due to weakness in the abdominal wall. It can be permanently corrected with surgical treatment.

Umbilical Hernia

Genel Cerrahi

Umbilical hernia manifests as a soft swelling around the navel. While it often resolves spontaneously in infants, surgical treatment may be required in adults.

Gallstones and Cholecystectomy

Genel Cerrahi

Gallstones cause severe pain in the upper right abdomen, especially after fatty meals. They are safely treated with laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Hemorrhoids (Piles)

Genel Cerrahi

Hemorrhoids result from swelling of the veins in the anus; they present with blood on toilet paper, itching, and pain. Various treatments are available, from lifestyle changes to surgery.

Anal Fissure

Genel Cerrahi

Anal fissure is a tear in the thin skin of the anal canal. It presents with sharp pain and bleeding and can be healed with medical or surgical treatment.

Pilonidal Sinus

Genel Cerrahi

Pilonidal sinus consists of tunnels and tracts prone to chronic infection, formed by hair becoming embedded under the skin in the tailbone area. Surgical treatment provides a permanent solution.

Thyroid Surgery

Genel Cerrahi

Thyroid surgery involves the removal of part or all of the thyroid gland for indications such as benign nodules, goiter, and thyroid cancer.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.