AMEBIC LIVER ABSCESS IN AN IMMUNOCOMPROMISED PATIENT: A CASE REPORT
Luis Poggi, MD; Harold Guerrero, MD; Aranza Pujazon; Ivette Pinco; Lucas Távara; Alessandra Rodriguez, MD; Rodrigo Rojas, MD; CIFCAD / British American Hospital

Introduction: Amebic liver abscesses (ALA) pose significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in immunocompromised patients.

Presentation of case: 44-year-old Peruvian male with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes, presented with epigastric pain and fever. Abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) scans revealed a hepatic abscess. After unsuccessfully attempting antiparasitic and antibiotic therapy, laparoscopic drainage followed by cholecystectomy with intraoperative cholangiography and drain placement were performed. Empiric antibiotics were also initiated. Serial imaging confirmed the successful outcome.

Discussion: Early drainage, antimicrobial therapy and endocrinological management contributed to a successful outcome.

Conclusion: Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment of ALAs are crucial, particularly in endemic regions, when facing atypical symptoms and patients with comorbidities. Advanced imaging modalities, laparoscopic drainage and postoperative drains guided the successful management of a complex hepatic infection.