Amoebic disease precipitated by corticosteroids prescribed for tuberculous pleural effusions

One case of ameobic abscess of the liver and one case of amoebic dysentery are described in two patients who were prescribed corticosteroids as part of the intreatment for tuberculous pleural effusion. In both cases routine stool examinations prior to steroid therapy were negative for cysts or trophozoites of E. histolytica.