Liver Abscess: Diagnostic, Therapeutic and Progressive Aspects in the Hepato-Gastroenterology Department of Sourô Sanou University Hospital

Abstract

Introduction : Liver abscess is an infection of the hepatic parenchyma that requires early diagnosis and effective management. The objective of this study was to describe the diagnostic, therapeutic and progressive aspects of liver abscesses at the Sourô Sanou University Hospital (CHUSS). Methodology : This was a descriptive cross-sectional study, with retrospective data collection, conducted from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2021 in the hepato-gastroenterology department of the CHUSS. Patients who had a liver abscess confirmed by liver ultrasound and were hospitalized during the study period were included. Primary abscessed cancers and hydatid or superinfected cysts were not included. Results : During the study period, 1767 patients were hospitalized and 23 cases of abscess included. There were 17 men, a sex ratio of 2.8. The mean age was 37.3 ± 16.2 years. The predominant medical histories and pathological conditions were intestinal amoebiasis and chronic alcohol consumption, respectively in 13 (56.5%) and 11 (47.8%) patients. A Fontan triad was observed in 21 patients (91.3%) and a deterioration in general condition in more than 50% of patients. A hyperleukocytosis was observed in all patients, and an elevated C-reactive protein was found in 18 patients (78.3%). On ultrasound, a single abscess or more than two pockets were revealed in 9 and 6 patients respectively, located in the majority of cases (21 patients) in the right lobe. Imidazoles, alone or in combination with a cephalosporin, were administered. Ultrasound-guided or surgical drainage was performed in 12 (52.2%) and 02 patients respectively. The outcome was favorable in 19 patients (82.6%) and the outcome was fatal in 4 others. Conclusion : Liver abscess remains a potentially serious pathology in our context. Only early diagnosis with appropriate treatment can achieve excellent results.