Diagnostic imaging of liver abscess

Abstract

This article on imaging of liver abscess discusses the appearance of pyogenic, amebic, and fungal abscesses using a multimodality approach, as well as imaging-pathologic correlation. It summarizes the experience obtained reviewing 100 cases of hepatic abscesses from two geographical areas that have different incidences of etiologic factors. Sixty abscesses were collected at the Hospital General de Mexico, where there is a high incidence of amebic abscesses, and 40 cases were collected at the University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, where pyogenic and fungal abscesses predominate. This article includes sections on pathology, etiology, epidemiology, clinical findings, prognosis, and therapy of hepatic abscesses, as well as imaging findings. Imaging is divided by techniques, including plain films, nuclear medicine, ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and angiography. It also includes a differential diagnosis section where different imaging findings of cystic lesions of the liver other than abscesses are displayed. Thirty-three references from both U.S. and Mexican authors are included, as well as 20 illustrations. In summary, in this article, we demonstrate how imaging is useful in diagnosing hepatic abscesses and how a focal mass in the liver may be distinguished between an abscess and a necrotic tumor. A practical approach is used so radiologists can benefit from the authors' experience and apply the findings described in their daily practice.