Abscess Size Research Articles

Brain Abscess Causes Brain Damage With Long-Lasting Focal Cerebral Hypoactivity that Correlates With Abscess Size: A Cross-Sectional 18F-Fluoro-Deoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography Study.

Bacterial brain abscesses may have long-term clinical consequences, eg, mental fatigue or epilepsy, but long-term structural consequences to the brain remain underexplored. We asked if brain abscesses damage brain activity long term, if the extent of such damage depends on the size of the abscess, and if the abscess capsule, which is often left in place during neurosurgery, remains a site of inflammation, which could explain long-lasting symptoms in patients with brain abscess. 2-[18F]-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT), electroencephalography, and MRI were performed 2 days to 9 years after neurosurgery for bacterial brain abscess. FDG-PET/CT revealed hypometabolism in the neocortex or cerebellum overlying the previous bacterial abscess in 38 of 40 patients. The larger the abscess, the greater was the extent of the subsequent hypometabolism (r = 0.63; p = 3 × 10-5). In 9 patients, the extent of subsequent hypometabolism seemed to coincide with the extent of peri-abscess edema in the acute phase. Follow-up MRI after ≥1 year in 9 patients showed focal tissue loss and gliosis. In 13 patients with abnormal electroencephalography recordings, abnormalities extended beyond the cerebral lobe affected by the abscess, indicating damage to wider brain networks. The abscess capsule had an FDG signal indicating inflammation only during the first week after neurosurgical pus drainage. The bigger a brain abscess is allowed to grow, the more extensive is the long-term focal reduction in brain activity. This finding emphasizes the need for rapid neurosurgical intervention. The abscess capsule does not display long-lasting inflammation and probably does not explain long-term symptoms after brain abscess.

Vesico-ureteral reflux diagnosis after initial kidney abscess: Results from a Paediatric Tertiary Hospital.

Guidelines regarding voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) indications following a paediatric kidney abscess are lacking. This study evaluates vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) prevalence and outcome after a first kidney abscess. This retrospective study included all children presenting to a tertiary paediatric reference centre with de-novo kidney abscesses from 2011 to 2022, diagnosed through imaging (ultrasonography or computed tomography). VCUG's clinical utility was assessed by exploring outcomes related to interventions. Among the 17 patients (median age 9 months, IQR; 6 months-6 years), VCUG identified VUR in 7 (41%; 95% CI: 18-65%), including two with grade IV-V. Median abscess size was 19 mm (IQR; 14-27). 7/8 (88%) children with DMSA scan presented scars, including 4 with hypofunctioning (20%-44%), and one with a non-functioning kidney. Scarring on the DMSA scan was similar regardless of identified VUR. Six children had subsequent pyelonephritis. Three of the remaining 11 had grade I-III and two IV-V VUR. Surgery was required in four children overall: three for recurrent pyelonephritis and one for high-grade VUR and scars. Among initial kidney abscess cases, 41% had VUR, similar to children experiencing their first uncomplicated pyelonephritis. VCUG results guided antibiotic prophylaxis but not surgical decisions. We suggest considering VCUG following recurrent pyelonephritis/kidney abscess and/or kidney scarring.

Non-Surgical Management of Methicillin-Sensitive Staphylococcus Aureus Bacteremia-Related Mediastinitis.

Acute mediastinitis is rarely caused by haematogenous spread of a remote infection. In this respect, since the only medical therapy is usually unsuccessful, treating acute mediastinitis with no source of infection detected is very challenging and management not standardized. In this case report, we describe non-surgical management experience of acute mediastinitis caused by methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus. In a 79-year-old man judged not eligible for cardiac surgery, we attempted the infection source control through vacuum-assisted closure therapy, together with antimicrobial therapy. We observed gradual clinical, laboratory and radiologic improvements: reduced swelling and normalization of the white blood cell count and C-reactive protein level were associated with reduction in size of a periaortic abscess. We managed a clinical condition with high mortality risk with chronic antimicrobial therapy alone, a strategy that is rarely considered. With this medical strategy we achieved an optimal response to a clinical picture that does not allow any other approach. Mediastinitis is a rare but severe infection with a high mortality rate.Chronic antimicrobial therapy can be an effective strategy in high surgical risk patients.The present case demonstrates good tolerability of lifelong antibiotic therapy.

Managing Perforated Diverticulitis: An Overview of Treatment Trends and Clinical Outcomes at a Single Centre in the United Kingdom.

Introduction Perforation represents the most critical manifestation of complicated diverticulitis. In 2008, it was estimated that about 2,000 cases of perforated diverticulitis (PD) were diagnosed in the United Kingdom (UK). Management of PD is evolvingwith considerable variation in approaches between hospitals and countries with an increased trend towards a conservative approach. Objective Our aim is to provide a comprehensive overview of the management strategies and treatment outcomes for PD, with a particular focus on the influence of abscess size and the presence of distant air (DA) on the successof conservative management. Methods Data from 112 patients admitted with PD to a single district hospital in the UK between 2013 and 2018 were retrospectively analysed.CT scan reports and images were examined to assess the size and number of abscesses, as well as the presence of DA. Failed initial management was defined as the need for an alternative therapeutic option after 48 hours during the index admission or readmission within 12 weeks. Follow-up data were also reviewed to evaluate the need for elective resection and stoma reversal. Result In this cohort of 112 patients with PD, a variety of treatment strategies were employed. Antibiotic therapy alone was successful in 46 patients (41%). Radiological management was successful in only six patients (5%). Surgical washout was required in 12 cases (11%), while resection was performed in 40 cases (36%). Best supportive care was provided to eight patients (7%) who were considered unfit for invasive interventions. The success rate was higher in cases with smaller abscesses and no DA (p <0.05). Specifically, 30 out of 45 patients (66.6%) with abscesses less than 4 cm and no DA were managed successfully with conservative treatment, whereas the success rate dropped to 14 out of 30 patients (47%) when DA was present (p<0.05). For abscesses larger than 4 cm, the success rate was seven out of 20 patients (35%) without DA and significantly lower at two out of 20 patients (10%) with DA (p=0.01). The data also show a shift towards increased conservative management over the six-year period, with a steady reduction in the number of surgical interventions. However, 12 patients (19%) were readmitted with complicated diverticulitis after the initial non-resectional management. Conclusion We observed a shift towards more conservative, non-operative management of acute complicated diverticulitis with perforation over the six-year period, likely influenced by advancements in diagnostic and interventional radiology, antibiotic therapy, and minimally invasive techniques. Our data also stress that cases of PD with distant extraluminal air or larger abscesses are less suited to conservative treatment, often necessitating traditional surgical interventions. Long-term follow-up showed a moderate rate of readmissions after non-resectional management, and while stoma reversal was successful in a proportion of patients, many either opted to live with the stoma or were deemed unsuitable for reversal. A larger, multicentre prospective study would likely provide more robust data on this subject.

The association between patient age, abscess size, and white blood cell count on duration of catheter stay for percutaneous abscess drainage of abdominal abscesses

ObjectiveKnowing factors that impact catheter stay duration is important since removing drainage catheters too early or late can have significant consequences. We present a single center retrospective study that analyzes multiple variables, including abscess size, white blood cell count, and patient age, to see if a correlation between them and duration of catheter stay exists. The inclusion criteria were patients that had abdominal abscesses treated with percutaneous abscess drainage using a pigtail catheter, ≥ 18 years of age, and had available medical images and records. 44 patients were included.ResultsAmong white blood cell count, patient age, and abscess volume, the only significant relationship with duration of catheter stay was abscess size (R = 0.42, p-value = 0.0049).

TRPA1 Influences Staphylococcus aureus Skin Infection in Mice and Associates with HIF-1a and MAPK Pathway Modulation.

Infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are a major public health burden. Emerging antibiotic resistance has heightened the need for new treatment approaches for MRSA infection such as developing novel antimicrobial agents and enhancing the host's defense response. The thermo-ion channels Transient Receptor Potential (TRP-) A1 and V1 have been identified as modulators of S. aureus quorum sensing in cell culture models. However, their effects on in vivo infection control are unknown. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effect of natural TRP ion channel inhibitors on MRSA skin infection in mice. While deletion of TRPV1 did not affect lesion size or inflammatory markers, TRPA1-/- mice demonstrated significantly reduced infection severity and abscess size. Treatment with natural inhibitors of TRPA1 with or without blockade of TRPV1 also reduced abscess size. Tissue transcriptomic data coupled with immunohistochemistry revealed that TRPA1 inhibition impacted heat shock protein expression (HSP), modulated the HIF-1a and MAPK pathways, and reduced IL4 expression. Additionally, metabolomics data showed an impact on purine and glycosaminoglycan pathways. Multi-omic integration of transcriptomic and metabolic data revealed that diacylglycerol metabolism was the likely bridge between metabolic and immunological impacts. Our findings suggest that TRPA1 antagonism could provide a promising and cost-effective therapeutic approach for reducing the severity of MRSA infection, and presents a novel underlying molecular mechanism.

PSV-28 Liver abscess microbiota of beef cattle administered in-feed tylosin differ according to abscess size and fraction

Abstract Liver abscesses (LA) pose a significant challenge to the Canadian beef industry as they are estimated to cost the industry ~ $61.2 million annually. This is likely an underestimate as it does not account for losses in animal productivity. Tylosin phosphate is widely used to reduce LA, but concerns over antimicrobial use selecting for antimicrobial resistance has created an urgency to explore alternative approaches. Understanding the impact of tylosin on the microbial ecology of LA is crucial to this. We hypothesized that altering the duration of in-feed administration of tylosin to feedlot cattle would alter the microbial community of LA. To investigate this, we collected abscessed livers from cattle fed a diet containing tylosin 1) throughout finishing, 2) during the first 78% of the feeding or 3) during the last 75% of the feeding period. We examined LA microbial ecology of purulent material, abscess capsule tissue, originating from abscesses of different sizes using a metataxonomic approach. Our findings revealed that shortening tylosin administration did not notably alter the alpha (P &amp;gt; 0.05) or beta-diversity (P &amp;gt; 0.05) of LA microbial communities. There was a significant difference in microbial richness associated with abscess capsule (P &amp;lt; 0.05) compared with bulk purulent material. Fusobacterium or Bacteroides ASVs dominated LA microbiomes, alongside probable opportunistic gut pathogens and other bacteria. Interestingly, classifying samples based on whether they originated from a liver with a single abscess, multiple abscesses or a very large abscess tended to differ in microbiome composition (P = 0.06). These insights contribute to our understanding of factors impacting liver abscess microbial ecology and will be valuable in identifying antibiotic alternatives. They underscore the importance of exploring varied approaches to address liver abscesses while reducing reliance on in-feed antibiotics.

The role of male hormones in bacterial infections: enhancing Staphylococcus aureus virulence through testosterone-induced Agr activation.

Staphylococcus aureus is a notorious pathogen predominantly involved in skin and soft tissue infections, exhibiting a distinct innate sex bias. This study explores the influence of testosterone on the virulence of S. aureus and elucidates its underlying mechanisms. Utilizing a skin abscess model in intact and castrated male mice, we assessed the effects of testosterone on S. aureus pathogenicity. Compared to controls, castrated mice showed significantly reduced abscess sizes and decreased bacterial loads, highlighting the role of testosterone in modulating the severity of S. aureus infections. In vitro experiments revealed that testosterone enhances the hemolytic activity, cytotoxicity, and oxidative stress resistance of S. aureus. Real-time quantitative PCR analysis showed a significant upregulation of the genes encoding α-hemolysin (hla) and phenol-soluble modulin (psmα). Importantly, testosterone treatment significantly enhanced the expression of the accessory gene regulator (Agr) quorum-sensing system components (agrC, agrA, agrB, agrD), while the SaeRS system (saeR, saeS, and sbi) exhibited only slight changes. Gene knockout experiments revealed that deletion of agrC, rather than saeRS and agrBD, abolishes the testosterone-induced enhancement of hemolysis and gene expression, underscoring the key role of AgrC. Molecular docking simulations indicated a direct interaction between testosterone and AgrC protein, with a strong binding affinity at the active site residue SER201. This study provides new insights into the mechanistic basis of how testosterone enhances the pathogenicity of S. aureus, potentially contributing to increased male susceptibility to S. aureus infections and offering a targeted approach for therapeutic interventions.

SP2.1 - Endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy for peri-appendiceal abscess

Abstract Aims ERAT is a novel technique primarily for uncomplicated appendicitis, but it is starting to be used also for peri-appendiceal abscesses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and clinical outcomes of ERAT in treating patients with peri-appendiceal abscess. Methods Between January 2018 and April 2023, twenty-eight patients with peri-appendiceal abscess were treated with ERAT. We retrospectively analyzed the location and size of the peri-appendiceal abscess, success rate of ERAT, median operative time, postoperative hospital stay and complications. We defined success of ERAT as finding the appendiceal orifice and successful performance of ERAT without conversion to appendectomy or percutaneous drainage of the appendiceal abscess within one month. All patients were followed up at least 6 months, with a median follow-up of 31.5 months. Results The success rate of ERAT was 75.0% (95% CI, 54.8%-88.6%; n = 21/28). 35.7% (95% CI, 19.3%-55.9%; n = 10/28) of peri-appendiceal abscesses were located in the lower ileum, and the median size of appendiceal abscesses was 43.5 mm (95% CI: 33-53). 80.8% (95% CI, 60.0%-92.7%; n = 21/26) of patients had a visual analogue scale pain score of ≤3 at 24 hours after treatment. The median procedure time was 69.5 minutes (95% CI: 51-76), and the median hospital stay was 6.5 days (95% CI: 5-9). During the follow-up period, a total of four (17.1%; 95% CI, 0.9%-13.1%; 4/21) patients presented with abdominal pain associated with peri-appendiceal abscesses. Conclusions ERAT is a technically feasible treatment for peri-appendiceal abscesses.

Analysis of Risk Factors for Recurrence Following Conservative Treatment of Acute Appendicitis-Related Abscesses in Children

Background: Acute appendicitis accompanied by a periappendiceal abscess is a common pediatric surgical emergency, with a risk of recurrence. Objectives: To analyze the risk factors for the recurrence of acute appendicitis-related periappendiceal abscesses in children following the resolution of clinical symptoms. Methods: We retrospectively collected data from children admitted to the hospital with periappendiceal abscesses between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2021. These children were categorized into recurrent and non-recurrent groups based on whether a periappendiceal abscess recurred. Gender, age, length of hospitalization, white blood cell (WBC) count, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels at admission and discharge were compared between the two groups. Logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors for the recurrence of periappendiceal abscesses in children following conservative treatment. Results: After 2 years of outpatient follow-up, 65 children were included in the study, nine of whom experienced recurrence. Significant differences were observed between the recurrent and non-recurrent groups in terms of abscess size at discharge (6.50 vs. 2.80 cm, P = 0.022), WBC count at discharge (13.25 × 10⁹/L vs. 6.98 × 10⁹/L, P = 0.016), and CRP level at discharge (32.80 vs. 8.60 mg/L, P = 0.002). A multifactorial logistic regression analysis indicated that both WBC count and CRP level at discharge were independently associated with the recurrence of periappendiceal abscesses. Conclusions: Increased attention should be given to the risk of recurrence in pediatric patients with elevated WBC counts and CRP levels at the time of discharge.

Outcome of three different techniques of prostatic abscess drainage: a retrospective single-center experience

BackgroundDespite the fact that prostate abscess (PA) is a serious condition, no standardized guidelines are available on the best methods for its drainage. The goal of the current study is to compare the outcomes of the three modalities of prostate abscess (PA) drainage: transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) guided aspiration (TRA), transperineal aspiration (TPA), and transurethral de-roofing (TUD).MethodsThe records of 66 patients diagnosed with PAs were collected between 2015 and 2022 and divided into 3 groups according to the technique of abscess drainage that was used. Group A included 26 patients treated by TRA; Group B included 28 patients treated by TUD; and Group C included 12 patients treated by TPA. The three groups were compared based on demographic data, drainage success, recurrence, complications, and hospital stay.ResultsThe mean abscess size (cm) was 4.8 ± 1, 5.7 ± 1, and 5.4 ± 1.3 cm in groups A, B, and C, respectively. Central abscesses were detected in 35 patients (53%), peripheral in 21 patients (31.8%), and both central and peripheral in 10 patients (15.2%). The most common clinical presentation was lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in 45 patients (68.18%), followed by fever in 40 patients (60.6%). The mean abscess size (cm) was 4.8 ± 1, 5.7 ± 1, and 5.4 ± 1.3 cm in groups A, B, and C, respectively. Recurrence of the abscess occurred in three (11.5%), one (3.6%), and one (8.3%) patients in groups A, B, and C, respectively (p = 0.496). The mean hospital stay was 4.8 ± 1.7, 5 ± 1.8, and 4.5 ± 1.3 days in groups A, B, and C, respectively (p = 0.763). When compared to the other two groups, the TUD group had a higher rate of complications (32.1%).ConclusionA TRUS-guided transrectal and transperineal aspiration of PA were comparable to TUD technique regarding the recurrence rate and hospitalization period; however, the safety profile was in favor of the aspiration groups.

The clinical efficacy of Lou's Wentong method in the treatment of lactational mastitis: A retrospective self-control study with 158 cases

BackgroundAs a common breast disease in lactating women, lactational mastitis is clinically manifested as painful breast lumps and systemic symptoms. To a certain extent, this disease may affect the physical and mental health of lactating women and even the breastfeeding of infants. ObjectiveThis study was conducted to evaluate the clinical efficacy of Lou's Wentong Method in the comprehensive treatment of lactational mastitis and its effects on relevant symptoms. MethodsA total of 158 patients who were diagnosed with lactational mastitis in The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University from January 2022 to January 2024 were included in this study to conduct a retrospective analysis. The treatment method comprised oral administration of traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions guided by the concept of “Wentong zhi yong” (warming and dispersing therapy for treating abscesses), puncture and pus extraction for patients with abscess formation, and milk drainage for patients with milk stagnation. The clinical symptoms of these patients were collected according to the seven indexes in Lou's quantitative scorecard for evaluating the condition of canker sores before and after treatment. Additionally, the improvement of each symptom after treatment, the total effective rate of the clinical treatment, and the total symptom evaluation score before and after treatment were also analyzed. ResultsIt was demonstrated that there were significant differences in the overall distribution of different severity symptoms (skin erythema, breast pain, number of lumps, size of lumps, breast abscesses, and body temperature) at three time points (P < 0.01). The evaluation of these symptoms at different time points revealed that all symptoms were effectively mitigated over time. Meanwhile, the efficacy was assessed according to the efficacy index to evaluate the efficacy of Lou's Wentong Method in the comprehensive treatment of lactational mastitis. The results corroborated the pronounced efficacy of Lou's Wentong Method in treating lactational mastitis, exhibiting statistical significance (P < 0.01). ConclusionLou's Wentong Method has significant therapeutic effects in the comprehensive treatment of lactational mastitis. Furthermore, this method is conducive to alleviating the clinical symptoms of these patients as soon as possible and can reduce the pain of patients, thus promoting their recovery.

A case of pediatric brain abscess secondary to rhinosinusitis

Acute bacterial rhinosinusitis is a common childhood infection and a frequent complication of viral infections or allergic inflammations of the upper respiratory tract. Untreated cases may have serious complications as meningitis, orbital cellulitis, epidural and brain abscesses (1,2). Brain abscesses rarely seen pediatric infections with high mortality and morbidity rates, are mostly observed secondary to extrasinus spread of rhinosinusitis and acute otitis media, hematogenous spread and penetrating trauma (3). The most common predisposing factors are immunodeficiencies, cyanotic heart and hematologic diseases. A 16-year-old boy was admitted to the emergency service due to seizure. It was learned from his history that he was admitted to the hospital 10 days ago due to headache and high fever. With the diagnosis of acute sinusitis, azithromycin and ornidazole treatment was started, but there was no improvement in his complaints.. On physical examination, clouding of consciousness and postnasal purulent discharge were detected. Remarkable laboratory test results: WBC: 22.500/mm3; platelets 156.000/mm3, C-reactive protein 226 mg/L. Brain tomography revealed a 4-cm suspicious abscess or mass lesion in the right frontal region of the brain compatible with right frontal and ethmoid sinusitis. Upon consultation with pediatric neurology and neurosurgery departments, cranial MRI and MR spectrometry were performed which revealed a lesion compatible with a 4- cm brain abscess, brain edema , shift, and acute sinusitis in the right frontal region. Treatment with cefotaxime, vancomycin and metroinidazole was started for acute sinusitis, and hypertonic sodium infusion and leveteresitam treatment for brain edema. Surgical drainage of the abscess &gt; 2 cm was performed by neurosurgery. Gram staining and culture of the abscess material were unremarkable. Upon evaluation by pediatric immunology, cardiology and hematology departments, immunodeficiency, cyanotic heart disease and hematologic disease were not detected. The lesion was evaluated as inappropriately treated brain abscess secondary to acute sinusitis. In the 2nd week of treatment, edema surrounding the abscess, shift and pressure regressed, but the the abscess did not shrink, so the treatment with meropenem, vancomycin and metroinidazole was initiated. Antiedema therapy was discontinued, and antibiotherapy was maintained for 9 weeks until the abscess size was &lt; 2 cm. When the abscess shrinked below 1 cm in the control cranial images he was discharged with follow-up recommendations. Acute bacterial sinusitis is one of the common, and clinically diagnosed infectious diseases of childhood. And current guidelines recommend amoxicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid and cephalosporins (ie.cefdinir) as the first-line treatment. Considering the high drug resistance in our country, macrolides are not the first choice in patients without a history of penicillin allergy (2). If not treated appropriately, serious cranial complications preventable with timely appropriate antibiotherapy may develop. Brain abscesses are rare but mortal infectious diseases in childhood. The most common cause is the extrasinus spread of infections such as acute rhinosinusitis (3). Combination of medical and surgical treatment is usually recommended for abscesses &gt; 2 cm. For abscesses &lt; 2 cm and inoperable multiple abscesses only medical treatment is an option. Although the duration of treatment depends on the size, location, causative agent and treatment response, medical treatment is recommended for approximately 6-12 weeks until the abscess is &lt; 2 cm (4)

Pyogenic liver abscess in pediatric populations in beijing (2008–2023)

BackgroundData on pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) of children in China have been limited. We aimed to summarize the clinical feather, microbiological characteristics, management, and outcome of PLA in children.MethodWe retrospectively reviewed PLA cases from January 2008 to June 2023 at Beijing Children’s Hospital. Clinical characteristics, pathogens and management were analyzed.ResultsWe diagnosed 57 PLA patients in our center. The median onset age was 4.5 years and the male-to-female ratio was 1.6:1. The median diagnostic time was nine days and the median length of stay was 22 days. Twenty-eight patients (49.1%) had predisposing factors, around 71.4% of the patients had malignant hematology and primary immunodeficiency disease. Patients with underlying factors were more likely to have extrahepatic organ involvement (p = 0.024), anemia (p < 0.001), single abscess (p = 0.042), unilateral involvement (p = 0.039), and small size of the abscess (p = 0.008). Twenty-four patients (42.1%) had extrahepatic organ involvement. Pathogens were identified in 17 patients (29.8%), the most common pathogens were Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus. The positive rate of metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) was 87.5% (7/8). On multivariable analysis, the extrahepatic organ involved (p = 0.029) and hepatomegaly (p = 0.025) were two independent factors associated with poor outcomes.ConclusionsPLA is usually seen in children with predisposing factors. Malignant hematology and primary immunodeficiency disease were the most common underlying diseases. Extrahepatic organ involvement and hepatomegaly are associated with poor prognosis. Increased use of mNGS could be beneficial for identifying pathogens.

Acute diverticulitis management: evolving trends among Italian surgeons. A survey of the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR).

Acute diverticulitis (AD) is associated with relevant morbidity/mortality and is increasing worldwide, thus becoming a major issue for national health systems. AD may be challenging, as clinical relevance varies widely, ranging from asymptomatic picture to life-threatening conditions, with continuously evolving diagnostic tools, classifications, and management. A 33-item-questionnaire was administered to residents and surgeons to analyze the actual clinical practice and to verify the real spread of recent recommendations, also by stratifying surgeons by experience. CT-scan remains the mainstay of AD assessment, including cases presenting with recurrent mild episodes or women of child-bearing age. Outpatient management of mild AD is slowly gaining acceptance. A conservative management is preferred in non-severe cases with extradigestive air or small/non-radiologically drainable abscesses. In severe cases, a laparoscopic approach is preferred, with a non-negligible number of surgeons confident in performing emergency complex procedures. Surgeons are seemingly aware of several options during emergency surgery for AD, since the rate of Hartmann procedures does not exceed 50% in most environments and damage control surgery is spreading in life-threatening cases. Quality of life and history of complicated AD are the main indications for delayed colectomy, which is mostly performed avoiding the proximal vessel ligation, mobilizing the splenic flexure and performing a colorectal anastomosis. ICG is spreading to check anastomotic stumps’ vascularization. Differences between the two experience groups were found about the type of investigation to exclude colon cancer (considering the experience only in terms of number of colectomies performed), the size of the peritoneal abscess to be drained, practice of damage control surgery and the attitude towards colovesical fistula.

Liver abscess in the caudate lobe caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae: a rare case report and literature review

BackgroundK. pneumoniae liver abscess (KPLA) mostly involves the right lobe. We present a case of K. pneumoniae caudate liver abscess with invasive liver abscess syndrome (ILAS) was rarely identified.Case presentationA 53-year-old man with elevated glycated hemoglobin with chills, rigors and a fever of five days. The patient presented with tachycardia and fever. Physical examination revealed tenderness over the right abdomen was elicited. In particular, the inflammatory markers were markedly elevated, and computerized tomography (CT) showed pulmonary abscess, pulmonary embolism and caudate liver abscess. The patient’s sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score was 10 points. Klebsiella pneumoniae was isolated from sputum, urine and blood. With the suspicion of liver abscesses, ILAS and sepsis. The patient was successfully treated with antibiotics. He returned to close to his premorbid function.ConclusionK. pneumoniae caudate liver abscess was rare. This is the first detailed report of K. pneumoniae caudate liver abscess with invasive liver abscess syndrome. Patients with cryptogenic K. pneumoniae liver abscess are advised to undergo an examination of intestinal barrier function. The study indicates that in patients with K. pneumoniae liver abscess, a caudate liver abscess size of ≤ 9.86 cm² may be characteristic of those suitable for conservative treatment of invasive liver abscess syndrome.

Study of liver abscess in pediatrics patients in tertiary health care institute

liver abscess is mostly occurring due to the infection of bacteria, parasite like amoeba. The incidence of amoebic liver abscess varies all over the world and most of cases found in developing countries remain unreported. study of liver abscess in pediatric patients in tertiary health care institute. This was a prospective study, carried out in 64 at our tertiary care center, J K Lon Hospital, SMS Medical College, Jaipur from May 2022 to April 2023. We collect all data related to patients like demography, clinical features, laboratory finding, and imaging records and recorded on a pre-decided proforma. There were 64 patients (36 male, 56.25% and 28 females, 43.75%), The male to female ratio was 1.25:1. The mean age of presentation was 7.5 years. The common presenting symptom was anorexia in 55 (85.93%) cases. Most common symptom was abdominal pain in 60 (93.75%) cases, fever 58 (90.625%), and vomiting in 40 (62.5%%) cases. Diarrhoea was present in 5 patients. Anemia was most common clinical sign in present in 40 (62.5%) patients, weight loss 38 (59.37%). Respiratory distress was present in 4 (6.25%) due to pleural effusion and peritonitis cases. Jaundice was present in 5 (7.81%) . 5 case [7.81%] of patients had raised bilirubin and 28 patients [43.75%] had raised alkaline phosphatase levels. Raised SGOT and SGPT was 43.75 %. 34 patients of Amoebic liver abscess and 30 of Pyogenic liver abscess. 53.12% (34 cases) patients had amoebic liver abscess in the right lobe. less than 50 cc size of abscess was present in 24 patients (37.5%) cases. Most of the patients have cavity size 50-150cc. more than 200cc cavity found only in 10 cases. Average cavity size is 166cc. peritoneal ruptured liver abscess in 2 cases [3.12%%] had features of peritonitis, pleural effusion in 2 cases with complain of respiratory difficulties. Conservative medical management was done in 2 patients, USG guided needle aspiration 20 patients and 40 patients underwent pigtail catheter insertion. 12 fr pigtail catheter insertion was done in 30 patients and 10 patients underwent double pigtail catheter insertion. Exploration and drainage of liver abscess was done in 2 patients. In present study, mean hospital stay was 10.28 days. Hospital stays ranges from 5 to 17 days. Most of the patients stays 5 to 10 days [56.25%]. all amoebic liver abscesses were sterile. Most commonly found organism on pus culture was Staphylococcus in 25% cases followed by E. coli in 21.87% cases in pyogenic liver abscesses. from this study we found that ultrasonography is the standard modality for diagnostic and therapeutic management as well as for drainage and follow up. We also found that USG guided pigtail catheter drainage is a superior therapeutic approach than needle aspiration for large liver abscess, and abscess cavity resolves better in case of pigtail catheter drainage. We also concluded that ruptured liver abscess can also be managed with two pig tail catheter insertion.

Clinical relevance of the 3-cm threshold in sigmoid diverticulitis with abscess: consensus or quandary?

PurposeDiverticular abscess is a common manifestation of acute complicated diverticulitis. We aimed to analyze the clinical course of patients with diverticular abscess initially treated conservatively.MethodsAll patients with diverticular abscess undergoing elective or urgent/emergency surgery from October 2004 to October 2022 were identified from our institutional database. Depending on the abscess size, patients were divided into group A (≤ 3 cm) and group B (> 3 cm). Conservative treatment failure was defined as clinical deterioration, persistent or recurrent abscess, or urgent/emergency surgery. Baseline characteristics and short-term perioperative outcomes were recorded and compared between both groups. Uni- and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify determinants of conservative treatment failure and overall ostomy formation.ResultsA total of 105 patients were enrolled into group A (n = 73) and group B (n = 32). Uni- and multivariate analyses revealed abscess size as the only significant factor of conservative therapy failure [OR 9.904; p < 0.0001], while overall ostomy formation was significantly affected by an increased body mass index (BMI) [OR 1.366; p = 0.026]. There were no significant differences in perioperative outcome with the exception of a longer total hospital stay in patients managed with abscess drainage compared to antibiotics alone prior surgery in group B (p = 0.045).ConclusionAbscess diameter > 3 cm is not just an arbitrary chosen cut-off value for drainage placement but has a prognostic impact on medical treatment failure in patients with complicated acute diverticulitis. In this subgroup, the choice between primary drainage and antibiotics does not appear to influence outcome at the cost of prolonged hospital stay after drainage insertion.

The interplay between diabetes Mellitus and soft tissue infections in general surgical patients

BackgroundDiabetes mellitus (DM) is a worldwide pandemic affecting 500 million people. It is known to be associated with increased susceptibility to soft tissue infections (STI). Despite being a major public health burden, the literature relating the effects of DM and the presentation, severity and healing of STIs in general surgical patients remain limited.MethodWe conducted a retrospective review of all patients admitted with STI in a tertiary teaching hospital over a 12-month period. Patient demographics and surgical outcomes were collected and analysed.ResultsDuring the study period, 1059 patients were admitted for STIs (88% required surgery). DM was an independent risk factor for LOS. Diabetic patients presented with higher body-mass index (28 vs. 26), larger abscess size (24 vs. 14 cm2) and had a longer length of stay (4.4 days vs. 2.9 days). They also underwent a higher proportion of wide debridement and application of negative pressure wound therapy (42% vs. 35%). More diabetic patients underwent subsequent re-operation within the same sitting (8 vs. 4). Diabetic patients were two times more likely to present with carbuncles (p = 0.02).ConclusionThe incidence of STIs among DM patients represent a significant disease burden, surgeons should consider intensive patient counselling and partnering with primary care providers in order to help reduce the incidence of future STI admissions based upon lifestyle modification and glucose control.

Incidence of Complicated Appendicitis in Cases of Generalized Peritonitis Explored for Obscure Cause: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract Background 2ry generalized peritonitis presents a common life-threatening condition associated with high mortality and morbidity. Complicated appendicitis is one of the most common dangerous causes of secondary of generalized peritonitis. Early stage of appendicitis will be in its characteristic usual clinical picture, but delay in diagnosis and lack of experience and practice and patient’s fear from surgical interventions with abuse of medical TTT make the condition developed to generalized peritonitis. Aim and Objectives to establish, through the available literature, incidence of complicated appendicitis in cases of generalized peritonitis explored for obscure cause through systematic review and meta-analysis. Subjects and Methods This is Meta-analysis study, conducted on generalized peritonitis on adults and elderly all over the world. The literature search yielded 1821 unique articles. A further screening of titles and Abstracts was conducted, and 32 studies were considered potentially relevant to our review. According to the inclusion criteria, 10 studies were identified in this study. Results age, duration of pain, presence of an appendicolith, size of appendix and abscess were significant predictors to complicated appendicitis. Conclusion Decreased healthcare facilities and investigations, low experience for medical service provider, ignorance, low socio-economic state, decreased awareness and mentally-ill patients will worsen the case and make it difficult to diagnose the main cause of generalized peritonitis which will lead to the only decision of choice which is exploration. It will be a lifesaving decision for diagnosis and quick management of the disease to decrease suffering of such cases.