Numerous studies on liver abscess have been accumulated up to date, but the problem of early
diagnosis is yet controversial in some cases. And the mortality rate is as high as 10% in previo
usly reported series. We thought that rather high mortality of liver abscess at present largely
depends on the delayed diagnosis, including the clinical and bacteriological diagnosis, and inadequate
surgical drainage of the abscess.
The present report is clinical analysis of 135 cases of liver abscess from the Severance Hospital
during 10 year period, from September, 1959 through August, 1969. And special emphasis fell on
the early diagnosis and adequate surgical drainage if possible.
1. The incidence of liver abscess was 0.17% of total admission (78292 cases) during 10 year
period.
2. The age and sex incidence of liver abscess revealed greater prevalence in male of 4th decade
(31.9%) with a ratio of 5 males to 1 females.
3. The chief complains in order of frequency were abdominal pain and right chest pain in 78%
and fever with chills in 48%.
4. The liver function tests were not so helpful in the early diagnosis of the liver abscess.
5. The most common organisms in pyogenic liver abscess were Staphylococci in 47.6% and E.
Coli in 40.3%.
6. The liver color scans were taken in 36 cases, and they were relatvely significant to serve as
a guide to the early diagnosis, revealing cold area suggestive of liver abscess in most cases.
7. The ameba immobilization test was significant in 100% of amebic abscess, but also was sig
nificant in 60% of pyogenic abscess. And the reliability of the ameba immobilization test was
rather questionable in this study, especially in pyogenic and mixed form.
8. In conclusion, liver scan is highly helpful in early diagnosis of liver abscess if associated with
clinical picture of the patient.
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