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[Phlegmonous appendicitis revealed by pyogenic liver abscesses]

N Belkahla1, N Maamouri, Hajer Ouerghi

  • 1Service de Gastro-entérologie B, Hôpital La Marsa.

La Tunisie Medicale
|December 11, 2007
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Pyogenic liver abscesses, though rare, require prompt diagnosis and treatment. This case highlights phlegmonous appendicitis as a cause of liver abscesses, successfully treated with antibiotics and drainage.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Infections

Background:

  • Pyogenic liver abscesses are severe infections with varied etiologies.
  • While biliary and portal origins are common, appendicitis is an increasingly recognized cause.
  • Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes.

Observation:

  • A 47-year-old male presented with fever and weight loss, lacking typical abdominal pain.
  • Inflammatory markers (leukocytosis, neutrophilia) were elevated.
  • Imaging revealed a pyogenic liver abscess and an inflamed appendix.

Findings:

  • The patient underwent successful treatment with antibiotics, percutaneous abscess drainage, and laparoscopic appendectomy.
  • Histopathology confirmed phlegmonous appendicitis.
  • Follow-up imaging demonstrated significant reduction in abscess size.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering appendicitis in the differential diagnosis of pyogenic liver abscesses, even without classic symptoms.
  • Multimodal treatment including drainage and appendectomy can be highly effective.
  • Prompt management leads to favorable prognosis in pyogenic liver abscesses secondary to appendicitis.

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