Pyogenic liver abscess due to Escherichia coli in a case of chronic alcoholism

Abstract

Pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) is an intra-abdominal visceral abscess. Most often the etiological agent is a bacteria or parasite. Even though the incidence is low, it is important to establish the etiological agent for targeted therapy and in recent times, there is an increase in mortality rate. We report herewith a case of PLA due to Escherichia coli in a 60-year-old chronic alcoholic patient without any other evidence of infective foci who responded well to targeted antibiotic therapy and percutaneous drainage. This case report highlights the importance of microbiological work up in every case of PLA. Early diagnosis, percutaneous drainage, and targeted antibiotic therapy remain the mainstay of treatment.