A hepatic abscess is a localized collection of pus within the liver parenchyma, most commonly caused by pyogenic bacteria (pyogenic hepatic abscess), Entamoeba histolytica (amoebic abscess), or fungal organisms. Pyogenic abscesses often arise from biliary tract infection, portal pyemia from intra-abdominal sources, or hematogenous seeding. On ultrasound, hepatic abscesses appear as complex hypoechoic or anechoic collections, often with internal echoes, septations, or gas (echogenic foci with ‘dirty’ shadowing). Ultrasound-guided aspiration or drainage is a key intervention for both diagnosis and treatment. Clinical presentation includes fever, right upper quadrant pain, and elevated inflammatory markers.
Associated Anatomy: Liver
Signs & Symptoms: Fever, right upper quadrant pain, elevated white blood cell count, elevated liver enzymes
ICD-10: K75.0