CLINICOPATHOLOGICAL STUDY AND MANAGEMENT OF PATIENTS WITH LIVER ABSCESS IN TERTIARY CARE CENTRE IN NORTH INDIA

Abstract

Background: Liver abscess is a growing problem in tropical nations with often lethal consequences and diagnostic/therapeutic challenges. The study evaluated the etiopathology, clinical, radiological and bacteriological characteristics of liver abscess and its management strategies. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted in the Department of General Surgery, Pt. B. D. Sharma PGIMS Rohtak, involving 60 patients admitted between April 2021 and May 2022. Diagnosis was based on clinical features, laboratory investigations and radiological evidence of liver abscess. Results: Amoebic liver abscess was the most common type (61.7%). There was a strong association between liver abscess, alcohol consumption and low socioeconomic status. Klebsiella was the most common organism isolated in pyogenic liver abscess. Ultrasonography of the abdomen was found to be an accurate and cost-effective diagnostic modality. Conclusion: Most patients had amoebic liver abscess and showed a temporal relationship with alcoholism and lower socioeconomic status. Early recognition of clinical features and prompt abdominal ultrasonography may facilitate treatment initiation and help reduce complications.