A comparative evaluation of percutaneous catheter drainage for resistant amebic liver abscesses

Resistance to drug treatment is a well-known problem in the management of patients with amebic liver abscesses. We undertook a comparison of the various modalities of treatment currently used for such cases on a prospective, randomized basis. Fifty patients with 56 amebic liver abscesses found to be resistant to drug therapy were included in the study. Repeat trial of conservative therapy, therapeutic needle aspirations, percutaneous catheter drainage, and open surgical drainage were the modalities of treatment employed. The responses to the various modalities were compared for clinical relief, morbidity, failure of response, period of hospital stay, and resolution of abscess cavity. The most impressive results were seen with percutaneous catheter drainage. This new modality of treatment is recommended for all resistant cases of amebic liver abscess.