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[Pyogenic liver abscess caused by Streptococcus milleri]
1Dept. of Medicine B, Central Hospital of the Emek, Afula.
Abstract:
Streptococcus milleri is a facultative anaerobic pathogen of the viridans group associated with serious suppurative infections, mainly abscesses. We saw 3 cases of liver abscess due to this organism in 1990 in women aged 43, 59 and 67 years, respectively. The coccus was grown from blood cultures in 2 of the cases and from abscess drainage in the 3rd. The importance of prompt diagnosis of liver abscess by means of CT and ultrasonography is stressed. Conservative treatment consists of CT-guided percutaneous drainage, followed by prolonged antibiotic treatment. Such conservative measures avoid complex and sometimes hazardous surgical procedures.
Insights
Streptococcus milleri can cause serious liver abscesses. Prompt diagnosis with imaging and conservative treatments like percutaneous drainage are effective, avoiding surgery.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hepatology
Background:
- Streptococcus milleri, a viridans group bacterium, is a known cause of suppurative infections, particularly abscesses.
- Liver abscesses are serious conditions requiring timely diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- Three cases of liver abscess caused by Streptococcus milleri in adult women were observed.
- The pathogen was identified through blood cultures and abscess drainage.
- Patient ages were 43, 59, and 67 years.
Findings:
- Streptococcus milleri is an important pathogen in liver abscess formation.
- Computed tomography (CT) and ultrasonography are crucial for prompt diagnosis.
- Conservative management, including CT-guided percutaneous drainage and antibiotics, is effective.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and conservative management of Streptococcus milleri liver abscesses can prevent surgical intervention.
- This approach highlights the efficacy of minimally invasive techniques in treating complex infections.
- Understanding the role of Streptococcus milleri in liver abscesses aids in clinical decision-making.