An Unusual Case of Obstructive Jaundice Secondary to Pyogenic Liver Abscesses

Cureus. 2021 Jul 15;13(7):e16409. doi: 10.7759/cureus.16409. eCollection 2021 Jul.

Abstract

Pyogenic liver abscesses (PLA) are an uncommon, but potentially life-threatening infection. Although the link between amebic liver abscesses and obstructive jaundice is well documented, there are few cases of PLA leading to this complication. We present a case of multiple massive PLA and obstructive jaundice on initial presentation. The patient was treated for six weeks with antibiotics and percutaneous drains placed in the largest abscesses and was discharged after clinical improvement and resolution of the hyperbilirubinemia. This case highlights the importance of clinician awareness of other etiologies when evaluating patients with signs and symptoms of painful obstructive jaundice.

Keywords: cholestasis; liver abscess; liver abscess aspiration; obstructive jaundice; pyogenic abscess.

Publication types

  • Case Reports