Hepatic abscess: ultrasound as an aid to diagnosis

Diagnostic ultrasound has two major advantages over conventional imaging methods. It is able to distinguish solid from cystic masses and it is safe, using no ionizing radiation. The new technique of grey scale ultrasonography allows visualization and improved delineation of internal organ structure. Ultrasonography and radionuclide liver scans are complimentary examinations because of technical limitations and diagnostic advantages inherent in each technique. Early, combined use of these two imaging techniques should lead to an earlier diagnosis of hepatic abscess.