Hepatic brucelloma

Abstract

We present a case of hepatic abscess caused by Brucella melitensis (or hepatic brucelloma) diagnosed in a 59-year-old man 33 years after an episode of acute brucellosis that had completely resolved. Recovery from symptoms and a decrease in lesion size seen on radiological assessment were achieved through prolonged combined antibiotic therapy, without the need for surgery. Hepatic brucelloma is a rare complication of brucellosis, which is the most common zoonosis globally, mainly occurring in specific endemic areas and causing a range of clinical manifestations. In this Grand Round, we review the clinical manifestations, diagnostic approach (through laboratory, radiology, and histology findings), differential diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of hepatic brucelloma.