TB Research

Isolated Tubercular Liver Abscess in a Non-immunodeficient Patient: A Rare Case Report

Sujata Devi, Pritinanda Mishra, Madhusmita Sethy, Gargi Singh Thakur

Cureus · 2019-12

Abstract

Isolated tubercular liver abscess (TLA) without the involvement of other organs is an extremely rare presentation of tuberculosis. This report describes a 23-year-old man who presented with a three-month history of fever and weight loss. Ultrasonography (USG) and contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen showed two abscesses in the liver, measuring 44 x 37 mm and 27 x 22 mm. Ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration was performed, with cytology confirming that the abscesses were tubercular. The patient was advised to start anti-tubercular therapy for six months. Although rare, TLAs should be considered in the differential diagnosis of fine-needle aspiration of patients with liver abscesses and prolonged fever. Early diagnosis and timely intervention will prevent morbidity and mortality in such patients.

MeSH terms

  • Medicine
  • Abscess
  • Tuberculosis
  • Liver abscess
  • Presentation (obstetrics)
  • Abdomen
  • Differential diagnosis
  • Ultrasonography
  • Radiology
  • Computed tomography
  • Surgery
  • Fine-needle aspiration
  • Fine needle aspiration cytology