Delayed perihepatic abscess caused byCutibacterium acnesfollowing right partial hepatectomy

Abstract

We describe a case of a man in his 70s who presented with tachycardia and several weeks of right lower quadrant pain 3 months after partial right hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma. Initial laboratory findings were significant for elevated C reactive protein and normal white cell count. CT revealed right pleural effusion and 5.8 cm fluid collection with air pocket adjacent to the surgical margin of the partial hepatectomy. Aspirate of the fluid collection grewCutibacterium acnes. Following percutaneous drainage and a short course of antibiotics, the patient recovered with eventual radiologic and symptomatic improvement. This, to the best of our knowledge, is one of two cases whereC. acneswas involved in a possible delayed presentation of a surgical site infection after hepatic surgery.