Sonographic demonstration of septicaemia with gas-forming organisms after liver transplantation
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H Jantsch1, P Barton, R Függer
1Department of Radiology, Allgemeines Krankenhaus, University of Vienna, Austria.
Abstract:
Sepsis with gas-forming organisms, e.g. Clostridium perfringens and anaerobic streptococci occurred in three of 120 liver-transplant recipients (2.5%). The diagnosis was made in all three patients by bedside ultrasound, before blood cultures revealed bacterial growth. Floating high amplitude echoes within the extra- and intrahepatic portal veins and persistent small high amplitude echoes in the non-dependent portion of the liver are indicative of portal venous gas and should prompt further laboratory investigations.
Insights
Sepsis caused by gas-forming bacteria, like Clostridium perfringens, occurred in 2.5% of liver transplant patients. Bedside ultrasound diagnosed portal venous gas before blood cultures confirmed bacterial growth.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Sepsis is a life-threatening complication in liver transplant recipients.
- Gas-forming organisms pose a significant risk in immunocompromised patients.
Observation:
- Three out of 120 liver transplant recipients (2.5%) developed sepsis due to gas-forming organisms.
- Diagnosis of portal venous gas was achieved via bedside ultrasound prior to blood culture confirmation.
Findings:
- Ultrasound revealed floating high-amplitude echoes in portal veins and persistent echoes in the liver.
- These specific ultrasound findings are indicative of portal venous gas.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis of portal venous gas using ultrasound can expedite sepsis management in liver transplant patients.
- This highlights the critical role of rapid diagnostic imaging in identifying serious infections.