DESCRIPTION
Focal hepatic infection due to E. histolytica. Only about a third of cases have
concomitant amoebic colitis. Diagnosis can be excluded if the serological
test is negative. It is essential to exclude pyogenic infection (a diagnostic
aspirate should be taken under ultrasound guidance in all cases where there
is doubt).
GENERAL MEASURES
Drainage is recommended for abscesses that are large, i.e. >10 cm
diameter, involve the left lobe or are near the surface of the liver. Drainage
can be achieved by percutaneous aspiration under ultrasound guidance.
MEDICINE TREATMENT
Metronidazole, oral, 400 mg 8 hourly for 10 days.
Reference and further reading
Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa 2012 Edition
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