A liver abscess is a collection of pus within the liver, caused by bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections. It is primarily classified into two types: pyogenic liver abscess, resulting from bacterial infections, and amoebic liver abscess, caused by Entamoeba histolytica. These infections often spread from the biliary system, portal vein, or nearby abdominal infections like appendicitis or diverticulitis.
Common symptoms include fever, upper right abdominal pain, nausea, jaundice, and fatigue. Early detection is crucial and involves imaging modalities such as ultrasound or CT scans, alongside blood tests indicating elevated liver enzymes and white blood cell counts. Treatment typically includes antibiotics and percutaneous drainage, while severe cases may necessitate surgical intervention. Without timely management, complications like abscess rupture and sepsis can arise.
Alcoholic Liver Diseases (ALD)
Alcoholic liver diseases encompass liver damage due to excessive alcohol consumption, ranging from fatty liver disease (steatosis) to alcoholic hepatitis and alcoholic cirrhosis.
Fatty Liver Disease:
Characterized by fat accumulation in liver cells, often asymptomatic and reversible with alcohol cessation.
Alcoholic Hepatitis:
Involves inflammation and liver cell damage, presenting with jaundice, abdominal pain, and fever. Severe cases may result in liver failure.
Alcoholic Cirrhosis:
Represents advanced liver scarring, leading to complications like portal hypertension, ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy.
The pathogenesis involves alcohol-induced oxidative stress and acetaldehyde toxicity. Diagnosis relies on clinical history, imaging, and liver tests. Management focuses on complete abstinence from alcohol, nutritional therapy, and, in severe cases, corticosteroids or liver transplantation.
Both liver abscess and ALD require prompt medical attention to prevent progression and life-threatening complications.