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Computed tomography characteristics of Burkholderia pseudomallei liver abscess

Anucha Apisarnthanarak1, Piyaporn Apisarnthanarak, Linda M Mundy

  • 1Division of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasart University Hospital, Pathumthani, Thailand. anapisarn@yahoo.com

Clinical Infectious Diseases : an Official Publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America
|March 3, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Three liver abscess cases showed a distinct "honeycomb" pattern on CT scans, indicating Burkholderia pseudomallei infection. This finding aids in diagnosing melioidosis, especially in endemic areas.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Radiology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Melioidosis is a serious bacterial infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei.
  • Liver abscesses are a common manifestation of melioidosis, particularly in endemic regions.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Observation:

  • Three patients presented with liver abscesses.
  • Computed tomography (CT) scans revealed a characteristic "honeycomb" appearance in these abscesses.
  • This specific imaging finding was consistently observed across all reported cases.

Findings:

  • The "honeycomb" appearance on CT scans is a significant indicator of Burkholderia pseudomallei liver abscesses.
  • This radiological sign can aid clinicians in suspecting melioidosis.
  • Microbiological confirmation remains essential for definitive diagnosis.

Implications:

  • Physicians should consider Burkholderia pseudomallei in the differential diagnosis of liver abscesses with a "honeycomb" pattern.
  • Empirical therapy for melioidosis should be considered in high-risk patients from endemic areas presenting with suggestive imaging.
  • Recognition of this CT finding can expedite diagnosis and management of melioidosis, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality.

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