Amebic liver abscess

Infect Dis Clin North Am. 2000 Sep;14(3):565-82, viii. doi: 10.1016/s0891-5520(05)70121-5.

Abstract

Amebiasis is a widespread parasitic disease caused by Entamoeba histolytica. This protozoan organism is the third leading parasitic cause of death in the developing world and is an important health risk to travelers in endemic areas. Amebiasis most commonly results in asymptomatic colonization of the gastrointestinal tract, but some patients may develop intestinal invasive disease or extraintestinal disease-amebic liver abscess being the most common extraintestinal manifestation. This article reviews epidemiologic features, pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnostic tests, imaging studies, treatment of amebic liver abscess, and prevention measures.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Digestive System / parasitology*
  • Entamoeba histolytica / pathogenicity*
  • Humans
  • Liver Abscess, Amebic* / diagnosis
  • Liver Abscess, Amebic* / epidemiology
  • Liver Abscess, Amebic* / etiology
  • Liver Abscess, Amebic* / therapy
  • Prognosis