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Liver Abscess Due to an Unusual Foreign Body: A Case Report
Salaheddine Abdennebi1, Amina Babana El Alaoui1, Lahcen Ifrine1
1General Surgery, Ibn Sina Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Rabat, Mohammed V University, Rabat, MAR.
Abstract:
Pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) is an uncommon and potentially threatening condition. However, foreign body-induced PLA due to gastrointestinal perforation is very rare and challenging to diagnose, especially when there is no recalled history of ingestion and no signs of peritoneal irritation. Its management is still not standardised and can be very difficult, leading, in almost all cases, to surgery. We present the case of a 60-year-old patient with a PLA resistant to medical treatment. Further investigation revealed a radio-dense image in the left hemiliver. The patient underwent laparoscopic surgery and removal of a foreign object deemed to be a fishbone.
Insights
A rare case of pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) caused by a fishbone was successfully treated with surgery. This highlights the importance of considering foreign bodies in difficult-to-diagnose PLA cases.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Hepatology
- Surgical Case Reports
Background:
- Pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) is a serious condition.
- Foreign body-induced PLA from gastrointestinal perforation is exceptionally rare and difficult to diagnose, particularly without a history of ingestion or signs of peritonitis.
Observation:
- A 60-year-old patient presented with a pyogenic liver abscess unresponsive to medical therapy.
- Imaging revealed a radio-dense foreign body within the left lobe of the liver.
Findings:
- Laparoscopic surgery was performed to remove the foreign object.
- The foreign object was identified as a fishbone.
Implications:
- This case underscores the diagnostic challenges of unusual PLA etiologies.
- Surgical intervention may be necessary for foreign body-induced PLA resistant to conservative treatment.
- Highlights the importance of thorough investigation in refractory liver abscess cases.
