Intra-Abdominal Abscess: Appropriate treatment for intra abdominal abscess is often delayed because of the obscure nature of many conditions resulting in abscess formation. This can make diagnosis and localisation of the abscess difficult.
What is an intra-abdominal abscess? My son was admitted through AE with appendicitis and was quickly brought to theatre. After the surgery he was told he also had an abdominal abscess.
An intra-abdominal abscess is an infected pocket of fluid and pus located inside the abdominal cavity. The abscess may be caused by a ruptured appendix, ruptured diverticula, a parasite infection in the intestines or other conditions. Risk factors include a history of appendicitis, diverticulitis, perforated ulcer disease, or any previous surgery that may have caused an infection.
What are the symptoms of an intra-abdominal abscess?
Symptoms can vary depending on the location of the abscess, but may include abdominal pain and distension (swelling), diarrhoea and vomiting, and chills accompanied with a high temperature. Lack of appetite and weakness may be experienced.
My son’s abscess was found during surgery, but could it have been detected any other way?
A CT scan of the abdomen will usually reveal an intra-abdominal abscess. A sample of the cells may be removed by a needle placed through the skin into the abscess in order to confirm the diagnosis. A complete blood count may also reveal a raised white blood count, which is indicative of infection. Other tests that might be carried out include an abdominal X-ray, liver function tests or ultrasound of the tummy. A laparoscopy may also be performed if an abscess is suspected.
When his appendix was removed, the surgeon left in a drain. Is this usual?
Treatment of an intra-abdominal abscess usually requires intravenous antibiotics and drainage. Drainage involves placing a needle through the skin into the abscess and insertion of the drain, which is then left in place until the abscess resolves. Where it is not possible to access the abscess in such a way, the abscess will be drained and cleaned under general anaesthetic. If left untreated, the abscess could rupture, leading to the spread of infection through the bloodstream with serious consequences.
