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Amebic liver abscess

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Amebic liver abscess

Definition:

Amebic liver abscess is a collection of pus in the liver caused by the intestinal parasite Entamoeba histolytica.

Alternative Names:
Hepatic amebiasis; Extraintestinal amebiasis; Abscess - amebic liver

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Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Amebic liver abscess is caused by Entamoeba histolytica, the same organism that causes amebiasis, an intestinal infection. The organism is carried through the blood to the liver.

The infection occurs worldwide, but is most common in tropical areas where crowded living conditions and poor sanitation exist. Africa, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and India have significant health problems associated with this disease. Transmission occurs through ingestion of cysts in fecally-contaminated food or water, use of human waste as fertilizer, and person-to-person contact.

Risk factors for amebic liver abscess include:

• Malnutrition
• Old age
• Pregnancy
• Steroid use
• Cancer
• Immunosuppression  
• Alcoholism
• Recent travel to a tropical region 
• Homosexuality, particularly in males

References:

Wells CD, Arguedas M. Amebic liver abscess. South Med J. 2004 Jul;97(7):673-82.

Lingvay I, Aung, K. Amebic liver abscess. eMedicine. 2004 Nov; 2662. Available online at: http://www.emedicine.com/med/topic2662.htm. Accessed June 23, 2005.

Torre A, Kershenobich D. Amebic liver abscess. Ann Hepa tol. 2002 Jan-Mar;1(1):45-7.

Feldman M, Friedman LS, Sleisenger MH, eds. Amebic Liver Abscess. In: Sleisenger & Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 7th Ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders; 2002:1345-1346.

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