TITLE:
Multiple liver abscesses in a child
AUTHORS:
Rikin K. Shah, Vinod K. Sethi, Walter J. Bridges, Abiodun O. Johnson
KEYWORDS:
Entameba Histolytica; Ameba; Infection; Amebiasis; Abscess
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Pediatrics,
Vol.2 No.4,
December
10,
2012
ABSTRACT: Entameba histolytica is a protozoan that usually causes procto-colitis. E. histolytica amebiasis is endemic in tropical countries but exceedingly rare in the US Amebic liver abscess commonly presents with fever, abdominal distension, right upper quadrant pain/tenderness, hepatomegaly, and tachycardia. We discuss the presentation/diagnosis of amebiasis in a child who had visited Mexico and the difficulty of early diagnosis when there is no evidence of intestinal infection. Ultrasonography and/or CT were essential diagnostic tools and an IgG antibody study confirmed the diagnosis. Management included oral metronida-zole and abscess drainage.