Clinicopathological analysis of liver abscess in Japan.

Currently, pyogenic liver abscess is not frequent, but it is a severe infectious disease. However a strategy for the effective treatment of liver abscess is not established. We analyzed 75 cases of liver abscess over an eight year period and evaluated their prognosis, any associated underlying disease, or the effect of percutaneous transhepatic abscess drainage (PTAD). For all 75 cases, laboratory data were analyzed and imaging studies were performed. Next, PTAD and antibiotic administration were started on these cases as first choice treatments. These treatments were continued until the laboratory data of the patient were restored to within the normal range. Those cases that were PTAD non-effective or required operation for underlying diseases, underwent operations. Of the total 75 cases, 63 survived after treatment and 12 cases died. Bacteria were detected in 50 cases and Klebsiella pneumoniae was detected in 31 of these 50 cases, but 25 out of 75 cases were negative. The biliary system was the main route of infection. PTAD was effective, especially in cases that were complicated with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) or acute renal failure (ARF). PTAD is an effective treatment for liver abscess, it is especially useful in the restoration of severe general conditions as indicated by this study.