Fungal liver abscesses in acute leukaemia--a report of two cases.

The radiological findings in two cases of hepatic fungal microabscesses (one with concomitant splenic involvement) occurring in children with acute leukaemia are presented, and the previous literature is reviewed. Usually both liver and spleen are involved, though either organ may be affected in isolation. Typical ultrasound features include hepatosplenomegaly with multiple hypoechoic areas throughout the liver and spleen, often with a 'target' configuration. Computed tomography shows these as multiple non-enhancing low attenuation lesions. These findings in a patient with acute leukaemia are strongly suspicious of fungal infection, and percutaneous fine-needle aspiration under ultrasound or computed tomography-guidance is indicated.