9.2 Amoebic liver abscess 

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An amoebic liver abscess is caused by the anaerobic parasite Entamoeba histolytica. It occurs in the tropics and causes amoebic dysentery (bloody stools) as a result of contaminated water or food. The pathogenic parasite reaches the bloodstream from the intestine, so that in addition to a liver abscess, lung or brain abscesses can also occur. The liver abscess is usually solitary and located in the right lobe of the liver. The clinic of an amoebic liver abscess is similar to that of a pyogenic liver abscess. The diagnosis is made by serology and stool examination. Treatment consists of metronidol. Percutaneous drainage is rarely necessary.

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