Abstract

FERREIRA, S. et al. Abcesso Hepático Piogénico: Casuística de 19 anos. J Port Gastrenterol. [online]. 2007, vol.14, n.3, pp.128-133. ISSN 0872-8178.

Introduction: Liver abscesses are an uncommon clinical entity, difficult to diagnose and treat. The last few decades have brought changes in the epidemiology of the disease, and improved diagnostic tools and new therapeutic options have appeared. Objectives and Methods: In order to analyze our hospital's experience with the condition, we reviewed the clinical data of 119 patients with a discharge diagnosis of liver abscess. Results: Fever and abdominal pain were the most common symptoms. Only 68% of the patients had leukocytosis. The abdominal ultrasound was diagnostic in 80% of the patients; 66% had solitary lesions and 34% multiple lesions. A microbial agent was isolated in 57%, and a predisposing condition was found in 60%. Percutaneous drainage combined with antibiotic therapy was the most frequent treatment used. The mortality rate was 4% and the cure rate 82%. Conclusion: Liver abscesses are commonly associated with gastrointestinal diseases and their management should include a search for a predisposing condition. An early diagnosis requires a low level of clinical suspicion.

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