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Published on: September 9, 2015
Cryptogenic pyogenic liver abscess caused by Fusobacterium necrophorum in an immunocompetent patient
Omar Salehi1, Andrew Chen2, Jevan Cevik3
1Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia osalehi012@gmail.com.
Abstract:
Pyogenic liver abscesses are potentially fatal conditions that require prompt treatment with drainage and appropriate antimicrobial therapy. Fusobacterium necrophorum is a gram-negative rod that is found in the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract and female genital tract. It is an extremely rare cause of liver abscess, particularly in the absence of risk factors or exposures. We describe an unusual case of a cryptogenic F. necrophorum hepatic abscess without a clear source despite extensive investigation in a young, immunocompetent patient without known risk factors or exposures for such an infection.
Insights
Fusobacterium necrophorum is a rare cause of liver abscesses. This case highlights a cryptogenic hepatic abscess in a young, healthy patient, emphasizing the need for broad diagnostic considerations.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Hepatology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Pyogenic liver abscesses are serious infections requiring prompt antimicrobial therapy and drainage.
- Fusobacterium necrophorum, a Gram-negative anaerobe, typically resides in the oral and gastrointestinal tracts.
- F. necrophorum is an exceptionally uncommon etiology for liver abscesses, especially in individuals without identifiable risk factors.
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