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Multiple hepatic abscesses due to Yersinia enterocolitica
I Strungs1, D J Farrell, L D Matar
1Department of Pathology, Toowoomba General Hospital, Queensland.
Pathology
|October 1, 1995
Summary
Yersinia enterocolitica caused multiple hepatic abscesses in a patient with risk factors like alcoholism and malignancy. Microbiological investigation is crucial for diagnosing liver lesions that appear malignant on imaging.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Multiple hepatic abscesses are rare, often associated with underlying conditions.
- Yersinia enterocolitica is an uncommon cause of liver abscesses, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
Observation:
- A 58-year-old male presented with presumed metastatic disease.
- Ultrasound and CT scans revealed multiple hypoechoic liver lesions.
- A rectal lesion further suggested malignancy.
Findings:
- CT-guided fine needle aspiration biopsy of a liver lesion revealed pus.
- Yersinia enterocolitica was identified from liver aspirate, blood, and feces.
- The patient had underlying risk factors including alcoholism and iron overload.
Implications:
- This case underscores the necessity of microbiological and histological examination for radiologically diagnosed presumptive malignancies.
- Early identification of Yersinia enterocolitica is crucial for appropriate treatment.
- Understanding risk factors can aid in diagnosing rare hepatic abscess presentations.