Hepatic abscesses: A review of their etiology, diagnosis, and treatment

Abstract

Hepatic abscesses represent a clinically significant condition due to their impact on morbidity and mortality, particularly in resource-limited settings. Although the reported incidence in high-income countries remains relatively low, in Latin American regions, such as Colombia, the actual burden of disease may be considerably underestimated. This underreporting is often due to limited access to specialized healthcare, insufficient diagnostic resources, and weaknesses in epidemiological surveillance systems. Consequently, the true incidence could surpass that observed in countries like the United States, highlighting the need for closer examination of this condition in the local context. Hepatic abscesses are characterized by the accumulation of purulent material within the liver parenchyma, resulting from bacterial, parasitic, or fungal infections. Their clinical presentation is often nonspecific and varies significantly depending on the underlying etiology, with pyogenic and amoebic abscesses being the most prevalent. This etiological diversity necessitates a tailored diagnostic and therapeutic approach, adapted to both the clinical scenario and the epidemiological setting. This review explores the current understanding of hepatic abscesses, including their pathophysiology, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic strategies, and treatment options. Recognizing these interactions is crucial for enhancing early diagnosis and timely treatment, particularly in countries like Colombia, where socioeconomic and healthcare limitations further emphasize the importance of addressing this condition.