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Amebic liver abscess in children: clinical and epidemiologic features
Pediatrics
|December 1, 1979
Summary
Amebiasis, an infection by Entamoeba histolytica, remains endemic in the US, often causing liver abscesses. Person-to-person spread linked to poor sanitation highlights the need for family screening during treatment.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Hepatology
- Public Health
Background:
- Amebiasis, caused by Entamoeba histolytica, is endemic in the United States.
- Liver abscess is an infrequent but consistent complication of amebiasis.
Observation:
- Seven cases of amebiasis with liver abscess were reported.
- Key clinical findings include fever, abdominal pain, respiratory distress, and hepatomegaly.
- Radiographic signs like elevated right hemidiaphragm and laboratory findings such as anemia and leukocytosis are common.
Findings:
- Epidemiological investigation revealed clustering of amebiasis cases.
- Person-to-person transmission, associated with poor sanitation and crowding, is the predominant mode of spread.
- Screening of two families identified carriers and seropositive individuals, along with evidence of poor sanitation and crowding.
Implications:
- Treatment for amebiasis in the US should involve investigating the patient's home environment and family.
- Public health strategies should address sanitation and crowding to control Entamoeba histolytica transmission.
- Early detection and intervention in household contacts are crucial for managing endemic amebiasis.