Haemophilus parainfluenzae Pyogenic Liver Abscess Associated With Cholangiocarcinoma

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Hepatology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Haemophilus parainfluenzae is a common commensal bacterium in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Hepatobiliary infections are rare but can occur in immunocompromised individuals or those with underlying inflammation or malignancy.

Observation:

• A case of pyogenic liver abscess was observed.
• The abscess was secondary to an ascending infection caused by Haemophilus parainfluenzae.
• The patient had an underlying diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma.

Findings:

• The study reports a rare instance of Haemophilus parainfluenzae causing a pyogenic liver abscess.
• The infection was associated with cholangiocarcinoma, suggesting a link between malignancy and opportunistic infections.
• Successful treatment was achieved with a course of ceftriaxone and metronidazole.

Implications:

• This case underscores the potential for commensal organisms like H. parainfluenzae to cause severe infections in susceptible hosts.
• It highlights the importance of considering unusual pathogens in liver abscesses, especially in patients with risk factors such as malignancy.
• The findings support the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics like ceftriaxone and metronidazole for treating such infections.