Biliobronchial fistula following pyogenic liver abscess

A 65-year-old man with malaise, chills and fever was found to have a pyogenic liver abscess. A fistula from the abscess to the bronchial tree was confirmed by bronchoscopy and thoracotomy. In spite of adequate drainage of the abscess, respiratory function deteriorated and the patient died 1 month after operation. Biliobronchial fistula resulting from a pyogenic liver abscess is rare and has not recently been reported in the English or French literature. Reports dating back to the first published case in 1857 are reviewed. Early supradiaphragmatic excision of the fistulous tract and drainage of the hepatic abscess are recommended.