Pyogenic liver abscess and colorectal neoplasia: A case series

Abstract

Background: Colorectal neoplasia is occasionally associated with hepatic abscess. To identify cases, we retrospectively analyzed the medical records of all patients admitted to our hospital for liver abscess from 2004 to 2008. Methods: Underlying disease was actively sought for all patients. Cases with obvious causes, such as biliary tract obstruction and immunocompromising conditions, were excluded. Results: Out of 211 cases of liver abscess included, 12 were found to be associated with colorectal neoplasia. None of these 12 cases had gastrointestinal symptoms. The stool occult blood test was positive in only 3 cases. There were 3 cases of focal adenocarcinoma in tubulovillous adenoma and the remaining 9 cases all had adenomatous polyps. Complete cure was achieved in all cases. Conclusions: When managing patients with liver abscess, colorectal neoplasia should be considered as a possible associated underlying condition.

Keywords::

• Liver abscess
• colorectal neoplasia
• etiology

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.