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Fusobacterium Nucleatum: Atypical Organism of Pyogenic Liver Abscess Might be Related to Sigmoid Diverticulitis

Karn Wijarnpreecha1, Nataliya Yuklyaeva1, Suthanya Sornprom1

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine , Bassett Medical Center , Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York , USA.

North American Journal of Medical Sciences
|May 24, 2016
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Pyogenic liver abscesses (PLAs) can stem from rare bacteria like Fusobacterium nucleatum, originating from unusual sites such as sigmoid diverticulitis. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing severe complications from this diverse infection.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Hepatology

Background:

  • Pyogenic liver abscesses (PLAs) are common in the US, typically caused by enteric bacteria.
  • Fusobacterium nucleatum is a rare pathogen implicated in PLA cases.

Observation:

  • A 60-year-old male presented with subacute fever, leukocytosis, and elevated alkaline phosphatase.
  • Liver imaging revealed a 5.5 cm abscess; aspirate culture identified Fusobacterium nucleatum.
  • Sigmoid ulceration was noted on colonoscopy, suggesting a link to prior diverticulitis.

Findings:

  • Successful treatment involved abscess drainage and antibiotics (moxifloxacin, metronidazole).
  • This case highlights Fusobacterium nucleatum as a PLA cause from an unusual source.

Implications:

  • PLAs can be a complication of sigmoid diverticulitis and occult dental disease.
  • Delayed diagnosis of Fusobacterium infections can lead to fatal outcomes.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing PLAs and preventing complications.
Keywords:
Diverticulitisfusobacterium nucleatumoral infectionpyogenic liver abscess

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