Abstract Pregnancy related-Acute kidney injury (PR-AKI) is a life-threatening complication with substantial fetal and maternal mortality and morbidity. AKI is associated with increased risk of infection and/or sepsis. Intra-abdominal infections account for 11.9% of infections that complicate AKI among critically ill patients. The pathophysiology is not fully understood, several theories have been proposed; of which, AKI associated hypervolemia leads to tissue edema and bacterial translocation. Moreover, AKI induces a hyper-inflammatory state and suppresses the immune system, this may present a greater predisposition for infection. Here we report a rare case of intra-abdominal abscess presented in a woman with recovering PR-AKI three months following normal vaginal delivery. Case presentation A 20-year-old, previously healthy female patient, was admitted due to severe postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) complicating a full-term vaginal delivery. On admission, blood pressure was 170/70, heart rate was 100 beats/min, and respiratory rate was 22 breaths/min. The patient developed oliguria, generalized edema, and fever (38.50c). The blood tests are revealed in Table I. The patient had elevated liver enzymes (SGOT 197 IU/L, and SGPT 117 IU/L). The patient was started on supportive treatment with packed RBC, platelet transfusion, and fresh frozen plasma. Empiric antibiotic was administrated. The patient subsequently had general improvement and was discharged 17 days after delivery with partial recovery of kidney function. Three months later, the patient presented with throbbing pain in the lower abdomen and fever. Abdominal examination revealed pelvi-abdominal fullness along with mild tenderness with no guarding or rigidity. No obvious palpable lumps were detected. No abnormities were detected in per vaginal and per rectal examinations. CT scan was performed and revealed a large sized collection in the lower abdomen sized 6.5x5x9 cm. Ultrasound guided aspiration of 60 ml pus confirmed the diagnosis of intraabdominal abscess. Intravenous antibiotics were started with percutaneous drainage of the abscess. Discussion Intraabdominal abscess is a serious ailment, and it is associated with high mortality and morbidity if left untreated. An intra-abdominal abscess can cause symptoms such as prolonged ileus, anorexia, fever, and abdominal pain. Septic shock may eventually develop in case of delayed treatment. However rare, there should be a causative factor. Intraabdominal abscess following a normal vaginal delivery is very rare and not reported with PR-AKI. CT scan is still the most useful technique for diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, it can help guide percutaneous drainage by locating the abscess in relation to the viscera of the abdomen. The use of adequate antimicrobial drug therapy in combination is a fundamental approach. It is therefore of great importance to consider symptoms such as atypical abdominal distension or pain in women in the postpartum period and to provide thorough comprehensive evaluation. Early diagnostic consideration greatly lessens patients’ morbidity and mortality.
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Oct 1, 2024
Chaithra B Shetty + 2
Open Access
