Modern approaches to diagnosis and treatment of bacterial liver abscesses

Abstract

Modern notions about etiology, pathogenesis and microbiological characteristics of bacterial liver abscesses are analyzed. Cholangiogenic abscess is a prevailing type among the incidences of liver abscesses. Today Klebsiella pneumoniae strains are the predominant cause of pyogenic hepatic abscess. Diagnosis of liver abscesses is based on a combination of clinical and laboratory findings and visualization survey methods. Success in the treatment of liver abscesses is provided by a multimodal approach, including sanation of purulent focus, rational antibacterial therapy and elimination of the main etiologic factor. Effective antibiotic therapy is based on the results of permanent microbiological monitoring of the abscess cavity, bile and blood contents. The question remains about what is the optimal time frame for antibiotic therapy. The main method of treatment of liver abscess is surgical. In the vast majority of cases, minimally invasive puncture-drainage under ultrasound or CT guidance proves to be an effective and sufficient method of treatment, regardless of the size, location and number of purulent foci. There is no consensus, however, on a differentiated choice of minimally invasive sanitation techniques, drainage periods and removal criteria in medical literature. An algorithm for treatment of cholangiogenic liver abscesses must include methods that ensure restoration of the bile ducts patency, relief of biliary hypertension and cholangitis. If the minimally invasive drainage techniques proves ineffective, as well as in cases of complicated abscess or presence of large sequesters in the destruction cavity, it is recommended to perform laparoscopic or traditional open surgery (including liver resections).