Raptured gas forming pyogenic liver abscess with a biliary fistula in Botswana: a case report

Pan Afr Med J. 2023 Dec 18:46:107. doi: 10.11604/pamj.2023.46.107.42256. eCollection 2023.

Abstract

We report a case of gas-forming pyogenic liver abscess (GFPLA) with a ruptured abscess and biliary fistula presenting with peritonitis. The patient had poorly controlled diabetes mellitus and was extremely ill at presentation. The diagnosis was delayed until the abscess ruptured, owing to nonspecific abdominal symptoms at the initial presentation and delayed follow-up radiological investigations. The patient had a high-output biliary fistula post-operatively, which was managed with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and stenting with fistula drainage reduction within four weeks. This case highlights the need for follow-up radiological investigations and prompt intervention in patients with diabetes mellitus presenting with fever and vague abdominal pain.

Keywords: Botswana; Gas-forming liver abscess; biliary fistula; case report; pyogenic liver abscess.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Pain
  • Biliary Fistula* / diagnosis
  • Biliary Fistula* / therapy
  • Botswana
  • Diabetes Mellitus*
  • Humans
  • Liver Abscess, Pyogenic* / diagnosis
  • Liver Abscess, Pyogenic* / therapy