Pyogenic Liver Abscess Due to Fusobacterium Mimicking Metastatic Liver Malignancy

Abstract

Introduction: Pyogenic liver abscess accounts for 80% of hepatic abscess cases in the United States. Increasing rates of anaerobic involvement has been reported since 1974. Fusobacterium species are among the most commonly encountered anaerobes, although it is a rare finding to see Fusobacterium species as a cause of liver abscess. Case Presentation: A 60-year-old man with a history of 100 pack year of tobacco use and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, presented with radiological findings for metastatic liver malignancy. This was an incidental finding when the patient had a computed tomographic pulmonary angiogram to rule out pulmonary embolism. The incidental findings were followed up with radiological testing, a colonoscopy, endoscopy, and 2 biopsies. The patient’s condition was finally diagnosed as a liver abscess due to Fusobacterium and was successfully treated with a prolonged course of metronidazole. Conclusion: Pyogenic liver abscess can mimic metastatic malignancy and should be considered when multiple hepatic lesions are seen on an abdominal computed tomography or other compatible diagnostic imaging.