Amebic liver abscess: review of twenty-nine cases with an evaluation of imaging techniques

Twenty-nine patients with amebic liver abscess were reviewed retrospectively. In twenty-six of twenty-eight patients, ultrasonography demonstrated the abscess. An elevated indirect hemagglutination titre confirmed the diagnosis in twenty-seven of twenty-eight patients. All patients recovered with specific chemotherapy. In evaluating clinically suspected amebic liver abscess, ultrasonography is a cost-effective, readily available, and reliable imaging method. If needed, computed tomography provides confirmation. Needle aspiration or catheter drainage have questionable value unless the diagnosis is in doubt or extrahepatic spread is present. The indirect hemagglutination test shows an elevated titre in most patients with liver infestation. By inducing a prompt recovery, antiamebic chemotherapy can confirm a suspected clinical diagnosis.