Surgical drainage of amoebic abscess of the liver

45 cases of amoebic abscess of the liver which were managed, over a period of 17 years, by surgical drainage are reviewed. The clinical presentation, diagnostic procedures performed, and morbidity and mortality are presented. From the results the following indications for surgical intervention are recommended: presence of an obvious liver abscess; persistence or aggravation of symptoms and signs during or following medical treatment, or persistence of symptoms with an inconclusive result from diagnostic procedures.