K75.0
DESCRIPTION
Focal bacterial infection, usually polymicrobial, of the liver with pus. Multiple abscesses are not uncommon.
GENERAL MEASURES
Drainage is essential in all cases. This should preferably be done percutaneously by inserting a catheter under ultrasound guidance.
MEDICINE TREATMENT
Empiric antibiotic therapy
- Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, oral, 875/125 mg 12 hourly.
If unable to tolerate oral therapy:
- Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, IV, 1.2 g 8 hourly.
Duration of antibiotic therapy is ill-defined, but may need to be for as long as 12 weeks in cases of multiple abscesses. Continue until drainage is complete and CRP has returned to normal values. Ultrasound resolution is very slow and is not useful for monitoring response to therapy.