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Several studies with kaempferol (KP) and linearolactone (LL) have demonstrated their antiparasitic activity. However, the toxicity of these treatments is unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the possible toxicological effects of intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of KP or LL on the amoebic liver abscess model (ALA) in Mesocricetus auratus. An ALA was induced in male hamsters with 1.5 × 105Entamoeba histolytica (E. histolytica) trophozoites inoculated in the left hepatic lobe. The lesion evolved for 4 days, and then KP (5 mg/kg body weight/day) or LL (10 mg/kg body weight/day) was administered for 4 consecutive days. Then, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), paraclinical analyses, and necropsy for histopathological evaluation were performed. There was similar ALA inhibition by KP (19.42%), LL (28.16%), and metronidazole, the antiamoebic control (20.87%) (p ≤ 0.05, analysis of variance [ANOVA]). There were hepatic and renal biochemical alterations in all treatment groups, mainly for KP (aspartate aminotransferase: 347.5 ± 37.5 U/L; blood urea nitrogen: 19.4 ± 1.9 g/dL; p ≤ 0.05, ANOVA). Lesions found in the organs were directly linked to the pathology. In conclusion, KP and LL decreased ALA development and exerted fewer toxicological effects compared with metronidazole. Therefore, both compounds exhibit therapeutic potential as an alternative treatment of amoebiasis caused by E. histolytica. However, additional clinical studies in different contexts are required to reaffirm this assertion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amoebic liver abscess (ALA) is commonly seen in tropical countries and diagnosis of ALA relies mainly on non-specific serological and imaging techniques as well as PCR from pus. This study evaluated the potential of using cell free DNA (cfDNA) from serum and urine for diagnosing ALA. We prospectively evaluated quantitative PCR (qPCR) for detection of cf DNA in serum and urine sample in all liver abscess patients. The samples were collected from patients reporting to emergency ward of Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India with symptoms suggestive of liver abscess. Real time PCR was done to detect cf DNA in serum and urine by targeting 99-bp unit of small subunit rRNA of Entamoeba histolytica and conventional PCR for pus. A total 113 samples (serum and urine) and 100 pus samples were analysed. A total of 62 ALA patients were confirmed; with maximum 57 patients detected by qPCR for cfDNA in the serum, 55 patients by PCR on pus aspirate and 50 ALA patients by qPCR for cfDNA in urine sample. Therefore, the sensitivity of qPCR for detection of cf DNA in serum was 91.94% and for urine was 80.65%. A total of 11.2% of ALA patients were diagnosed only through detection of E. histolytica cf DNA in their serum and urine. Detection of cfDNA from serum, urine of ALA has a potential role in future especially for developing countries as it is a rapid, sensitive and patient friendly diagnostic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: liver abscess as an inflammatory lesion predominantly caused by ALA and PLA, with ALA being more prevalent in India. It discusses the transmission of Entamoeba histolytica and emphasizes the importance of recognizing unusual variants of ALA due to their association with complications. The section also mentions the occurrence of liver abscess in different lobes of the liver and the benign nature of ALA in the absence of poor prognostic markers. Figure 1 Description: A suggested algorithm for the management of liver abscess is presented in Figure 1, although specific details are not provided in the text. Methodology: The study is designed as a case report and conducted in the Department of OBGY at Rohilkhand Medical College And Hospital, Bareilly. Case Report: This section details a case of a 32-year-old pregnant patient presenting with fever, fatigue, and right upper quadrant pain. The patient's clinical examination, laboratory findings (including blood tests and ultrasound), and the development of tachycardia and tachypnea during hospitalization are described. The ultrasound findings suggest a liver abscess. The patient's subsequent treatment in the ICU and the birth of a healthy neonate are also reported. Figure 2 Description: An abdominal ultrasound image shows the calcified wall of the abscess in a 32-week pregnant woman, as depicted in Figure 2. Conclusion: The conclusion highlights the rarity but critical importance of considering liver abscess as a potential cause of sepsis or septic shock in pregnant patients. It recommends ultrasonographic evaluation of the liver in such cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Liver abscess as an infectious space occupying lesion of the liver. Pyogenic and amoebic liver abscess is an infection that is emerging worldwide and that is associated with severe morbidity and considerable mortality. Aim: This study analyzes the predictive risk factors, clinical and socio-demographic features, complications and therapeutic management plan of liver abscesses patients. Methods: this prospective cross sectional study was carried out in the department of surgery, in a tertiary care hospital, central India. A total of 135 cases, between 18-75 years of age, irrespective of sex, getting admitted in our department, during the period of study, diagnosed as liver abscess were included in the study. All patients were thoroughly examined and all relevant investigations were done. All complications and outcomes were observed. Result: Majority of the cases were 45-60 years age group. Most of the participant was male. The complications of liver abscess were mainly developed in alcoholic male than female. 58.5% of abscess present in right lobe of liver. Duration of alcohol consumption, BMI and socio-economic status was not significantly associated with the complication, Most common clinical presentation were Fever, abdominal pain, tenderness and hepatomegaly. Raised total leukocyte count (>11000/comm), raised bilirubin (>2mg/dl) and increased liver enzymes were found in most of the cases. Most common complication was rupture of abscess in peritoneal and pleural cavity, peritonitis, Ascites and septic shock. Percutaneous aspiration combination with antibiotics has become the mainstay of treatment. Conclusion: The knowledge of predictive risk factors of liver abscess can allows early and appropriate treatment to avoid complications. Percutaneous drainage with appropriate antibiotics was associated with low rates of morbidity and mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Amoebiasis is parasitic infection occur due to protozoan parasite, Entamoeba histolytica in human being. It commonly resides in large intestine but can invade to other organs Amoebic Liver Abscess (ALA) is the most common complication of invasive amoebiasis. Aim and Objective: The present study was planned to determine the demographic profile and symptoms of liver abscess with Iron deficiency Anemia. Materials and Method: The present study was conducted on 50 confirmed liver abscess cases on the basis of radiological images, which were above 20 years of age were considered for the study. The estimations of the hemoglobin, serum ferritin, serum iron, and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) by cell counter and ELISA method. Results: The study has shown that the value of mean and standard division serum ferritin (11.17 ± 2.57), serum Iron (42.45 ± 3.69), MCV (79.69 ± 21.57), and Hb (12.11 ±1.67) is significantly low as compared to serum TIBC (816 ± 155.19) in liver abscess patient. Conclusion: ALA presents itself through various non-specific symptoms and signs. Confirmation of the diagnosis is made possible with the help of radiological and microbiological attributes. Early diagnosis and prompt iron profile treatment may decline the overall mortality/morbidity associated with the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Liver abscess as an infectious space occupying lesion of the liver. Pyogenic and amoebic liver abscess is an infection that is emerging worldwide and that is associated with severe morbidity and considerable mortality. Aim: This study analyzes the predictive risk factors, clinical and socio-demographic features, complications and therapeutic management plan of liver abscesses patients. Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was carried out in the department of surgery, in a tertiary care hospital, central India. A total of 135 cases, between 18-75 years of age, irrespective of sex, getting admitted in our department, during the period of study, diagnosed as liver abscess were included in the study. All patients were thoroughly examined and all relevant investigations were done. All complications and outcomes were observed. Result: Majority of the cases were 45-60 years age group. Most of the participant was male. The complications of liver abscess were mainly developed in alcoholic male than female. 58.5% of abscess present in right lobe of liver. Duration of alcohol consumption, BMI and socio-economic status was not significantly associated with the complication, most common clinical presentation were Fever, abdominal pain, tenderness and hepatomegaly. Raised total leukocyte count (>11000/comm), raised bilirubin (>2mg/dl) and increased liver enzymes were found in most of the cases. Most common complication was rupture of abscess in peritoneal and pleural cavity, peritonitis, Ascites and septic shock. Percutaneous aspiration combination with antibiotics has become the mainstay of treatment. Conclusion: The knowledge of predictive risk factors of liver abscess can allows early and appropriate treatment to avoid complications. Percutaneous drainage with appropriate antibiotics was associated with low rates of morbidity and mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amoebiasis is an infection caused by enteric protozoa, most commonly Entamoeba histolytica, and is globally considered a potentially severe and life-threatening condition. To understand the impact of the parasite genome on disease outcomes, it is important to study the genomes of infecting strains in areas with high disease prevalence. These studies aim to establish correlations between parasite genotypes and the clinical presentation of amoebiasis. We employ a strain typing approach that utilizes multiple loci, including SREHP and three polymorphic non-coding loci (tRNA-linked array N-K2 and loci 1-2 and 5-6), for high-resolution analysis. Distinct clinical phenotype isolates underwent amplification and sequencing of studied loci. The nucleotide sequences were analysed using Tandem Repeats Finder to detect short tandem repeats (STRs). These patterns were combined to assign a genotype, and the correlation between clinical phenotypes and repetitive patterns was statistically evaluated. This study found significant polymorphism in the size and number of PCR fragments at SREHP and 5-6 locus, while the 1-2 locus and NK2 locus showed variations in PCR product sizes. Out of 41 genotypes, two (I6 and I41) were significantly associated with their respective disease outcomes and were found in multiple isolates. We observed that I6 was linked with a symptomatic outcome, with a statistically significant p-value of 0.0183. Additionally, we found that I41 was associated with ALA disease outcome, with a p-value of 0.0089. Our study revealed new repeat units not previously reported, unveiling the genetic composition of E. histolytica strains in India, associated with distinct disease manifestations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amoebic liver abscess is one frequently encountered intra-abdominal infection, caused by Entamoeba histolytica and has various abdominal and thoracic life-threatening complications. Herein, describe a case of a 30-year-old female, who suffered from multiple amoebic liver abscesses and presented with massive right-sided pleural effusion. She was managed with recommended antibiotics and pigtail catheter for liver abscess and an intercostal drainage tube for massive pleural effusion. However, postintercostal drainage, her chest X-ray demonstrated a right mediastinal shadow, which was confirmed as an intrathoracic extension of the hepatic liver abscess on computed tomography. An ultrasound-guided pigtail catheter was manipulated and placed at the site of thoracic communication. This led to clinical and radiological improvement, but unfortunately, she developed ventilator-acquired pneumonia and died due to her illness. The case represents an uncommon complication of amoebic liver abscess, which is rarely described and adds more knowledge on the thoracic complexities of this infectious disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "Spontaneous Hepatoduodenal Fistula Due to Ruptured Amoebic Liver Abscess" published in Digestive Diseases & Sciences discusses a case of a middle-aged man presenting with symptoms of fever, abdominal pain, and vomiting, leading to the diagnosis of an amoebic liver abscess. The patient was treated with intravenous antibiotics and percutaneous aspiration of the abscess. Complications of amoebic liver abscess include rare occurrences of rupture into the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in a hepatoduodenal fistula. The article highlights the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate management of such cases. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Amoebic liver abscess an inflammatory space- occupying lesion of the liver as a result of Entamoebahistolytica. There is paucity of data on clinical presentation of amoebic liver abscess in emergency department. Objectives:To study different types of clinical presentation and complications of Amoebic liver abscess to achieve early diagnosis and prevent complications. Materials and methods: A retrospective study of ultrasonographically and serologically confirmed cases of amoebic liver abscess was carried out. History and general physical examination with attention to the liver size was recorded. Complete blood counts, liver function tests, prothrombin time index and a partial thromboplastin time were noted. Data on blood cultures and pus culture was noted and statistically analysed using IBM® SPSS® 23.0, for Windows®, to bring out the results of the study. Results: The mean age of patients was 38.3 years .Fever, and pain abdomen was seen in 92%, and 86% respectively. Duration of symptoms less than 2 weeks was seen in 48% cases. Hepatomegaly was seen in 14% cases, a right sided pleural effusion in 13% cases and ascites in 5%. On ultrasound, a right lobe abscess was seen in 68%, a left lobe abscess in 10% and multiple abscesses in both the lobes in 18% cases. 64 cases required per-cutaneous pigtail catheter drainage and the mortality rate was 6.4%.Conclusion: In southern odisha, Amoebic liver abscess is a public health problem. As a preventable illness, this imposes a major burden on the healthcare system and considerable opportunity for improvement still exists to address this healthcare disparity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entamoeba histolytica causes amoebic liver abscess (ALA) in humans. The injury of target cells by E. histolytica includes processes controlled by the ubiquitin Ehub. Previously, we found immunodominance of Ehub glycan moieties using immunized rabbits. In this work, we analysed dominance of antibodies to the glycoprotein Ehub in the sera from 52 patients with ALA. Controls were sera from 20 healthy people living in endemic areas with a high seroprevalence of antibodies to amoebas, and 20 patients with alcoholic hepatitis (AH) to rule out the cross‐reaction of Ehub with autoantibodies induced by liver damage. Antigens were trophozoite extract, glycoprotein Ehub and the recombinant protein E. histolytica recombinant ubiquitin (rEhub). The sera from healthy volunteers and patients with AH do not have antibodies to glycoprotein Ehub. Surprisingly, only the antibodies from patients with ALA recognized the glycoprotein Ehub, and some sera gave a faint reaction with the recombinant protein, especially because evolutionarily, the ubiquitin is conserved between species. This is the first report demonstrating that antibodies to ubiquitin Ehub are induced exclusively in patients with invasive amoebiasis, and the antibody response is mainly to the glycoprotein, indicating glycans are immunodominant. Inhibitors of the Ehub glycans could be potential treatment for amoebiasis by selectively damaging trophozoites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Amoebic liver abscess (ALA) is endemic to many areas of the world. This study sought to investigate the epidemiology, presentation, laboratory tests and imaging characteristics of ALA in Oman and ultimately determine whether it is native to Oman or originated abroad. Methods: This case series study was conducted at the Royal Hospital, Muscat, Oman, from January 2013 to December 2017 with patients older than 13 years and having a discharge diagnosis of ALA. Patient data were extracted from the Royal Hospital patient database. Results: 22 patients were included in the study--18 Omani patients and four expatriates. Only two Omanis had a history of traveling abroad. There were 15 male patients and seven were female with an average age of 45.2 years. The most common presentation was abdominal pain, which was seen in 17 patients. Fever was seen in 13 patients. Alanine transferase was found to be elevated in 13 patients. The majority of patients (90%) had no symptomatic infections prior to developing ALA. Conclusion: The data suggests that ALA is endemic to Oman, considering the high number of local patients and lack of travel abroad in this population. As the number of patients treated for ALA is rather small, it can be concluded that the occurrence of ALA is much lower in Oman than in other endemic areas. The majority of patients had no prior symptomatic infections; thus, a method of control involves screening to prevent amoebic spread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Amoebiasis is a parasitic disease caused by Entamoeba histolytica, which affects people living in low- and middle-income countries and has intestinal and extraintestinal manifestations. To date, knowledge on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) coinfection with enteric parasites is limited, and E. histolytica coinfection has not been previously described. Here we present the case of a patient with COVID-19 who, during hospitalisation, presented a clinical picture consistent with an amoebic liver abscess (ALA).Case Presentation: A 54-year-old man, admitted as a suspected case of COVID-19, presented to our hospital with dyspnoea, malaise, fever and hypoxaemia. A nasopharyngeal swab was positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. After 7 days, he developed diarrhoea, choluria and dysentery. An abdominal ultrasound showed a lesion compatible with a liver abscess; stool examination revealed E. histolytica trophozoites, and additional serology for E. histolytica was positive. After 12 days of treatment with metronidazole, ceftazidime and nitazoxanide, the patient reported acute abdominal pain, and an ultrasound examination revealed free liquid in the abdominal cavity. An emergency exploratory laparotomy was performed, finding 3000 mL of a thick fluid described as "anchovy paste". Computed tomography scan revealed a second abscess. He ended up receiving 21 days of antibiotic treatment and was discharged with satisfactory improvement.Conclusion: Here we present, to the best of our knowledge, the first report of ALA and COVID-19 co-presenting. Based on their pathophysiological similarities, coinfection with SARS-CoV-2 and E. histolytica could change the patient's clinical course; however, larger studies are needed to fully understand the interaction between these pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A liver abscess is a limited, often encysted, purulent inflammation with parenchymal necrosis that is a life-threatening complication of bacterial, fungal, protozoal and worm infections. Liver abscesses can be single or multiple; most of them are located in the right liver lobe. The pathogenic factor responsible for the development of abscesses can be identified by collecting the lesion's contents or the cultures of blood, bile, sometimes urine or stool samples. Diagnosis is established by serological, imaging and microscopic tests. The treatment regimen is determined mainly by the etiological factor and the size of the lesion and includes conservative treatment and mainly percutaneous procedures. The article briefly presents the epidemiology, clinical picture and the current approach to the diagnosis and treatment of liver abscesses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: India has second highest incidence of liver abscess worldwide. Image guided drainage methods are increasingly used to treat liver abscesses with fairly high success rates and with low cost and patient preference. But the preferred one to choose among these two methods of Percutaneous Catheter Drainage (PCD) and Percutaneous Needle Aspiration (PNA) still places a dilemma. Aim: To compare the effectiveness and outcome of PCD and PNA in treatment of liver abscess. Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted on 150 liver abscess patients in Shyam Shah Medical College in Vindhya region Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, India, from June 2019 to May 2020. They were divided into two groups for PNA (n=75) and PCD (n=75) by simple randomisation. Patient outcome was on the basis of duration to attain clinical relief (assessed subjectively), duration of hospital stay and days required for reduction in cavity size below 50%, death, and success rates were assessed in terms of number of attempts for adequate pus drainage. Chisquare test, non-paired Student's t-test and ANOVA tests were used. Results: In this study mean age was 40.57 years with 92.67% males. Most common lobe to involved was right lobe (87.3%). E.coli was the most common organism. All patients in PCD group were successful in single attempt. PNA group had a success rate of 84%. Mean number of days of clinical improvement were less for PCD (mean was 5.27 days) than PNA group (mean was 7.49 days) p-value=0.002. Mean days required for reduction in cavity size to less than 50% was lower in PCD (mean was 7.20 days) than PNA group (mean was 8.75 days) p-value=0.01. Total duration of hospital stay was higher in PNA (mean was 11.59 days) than in PCD group (mean was 9.28 days) p-value=0.03. All multiloculated cavities in PNA group were failures. Conclusion: PCD method was found to be more efficacious than needle aspiration method in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Patients with amoebic liver abscess (ALA) may require percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD). Once the PCD output is substantially reduced or has ceased along with clinical recovery, residual collections on radiological evaluation may concern the treating physicians. The prevalence and significance of such collections is unknown, and the subsequent approach how to tackle them is unclear. Methods: Consecutive patients with one or more uncomplicated ALAs requiring drainage were prospectively enrolled from 3 hospitals and managed based on a standard approach. Catheter removal was attempted after the patients fulfilled all 4 of the following criteria: disappearance of abdominal pain, absence of fever for at least 48 h, an improving trend of TLC (documented on 2 consecutive reports), and catheter drain output of < 10 ml/day for at least 2 consecutive days. Results: A total of 110 patients (mean age 46.6 ± 10.5 years, 93.6% males, 89.1% alcoholics) underwent PCD placement; 69 patients (69/110; 62.7%) met all 4 criteria within 5 days of PCD placement (optimal response) and had an uncomplicated course. Patients with suboptimal responses (41/110; 37.3%) were evaluated for local and systemic complications; the appearance of fresh collections (5/110; 4.5%), abscess rupture (2/110; 1.8%), bile leakage (3/110; 2.7%), cholangitis (2/110; 1.8%), thrombophlebitis (2/110; 1.8%) and hospital-acquired infections (2/110; 1.8%) were diagnosed and treated accordingly. Ultimately, PCD removal (based on the fulfilment of all 4 criteria) was universally successful after a median of 5 days (IQR, 4–9 days). None of the patients had symptom recurrence after PCD removal, although residual collections were still seen in 97.3% of patients at the time of PCD removal and in 92.1% and 84.9% of patients available for follow-up at 1 and 3 months, respectively. Conclusion: Based on our clinical protocol, PCD removal in ALA can be successfully expedited even in the presence of residual collections. An inability to fulfill all 4 criteria within 5 days of PCD placement warrants further evaluations for local and systemic complications that require additional therapeutic measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver abscess is a condition that is seen by surgeons all over the world. The patients present to the surgical department with features of right hypocondrial pain, fever and jaundice. Investigations such as ultrasound of the abdomen and CT scan of the abdomen are extremely useful in diagnosing a case of liver abscess. The two main causes of liver abscess are amoebic and pyogenic liver abscess. Occasionally a liver abscess may also occur due to fungal infection. Treatment modalities include the use of drugs such as metronidazole for amoebic liver abscess, as well as needle aspiration and pigtail catheter drainage when required. This was a prospective study was carried out from August 2015 to July 2018, for a period of three years. The study was conducted at SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Center, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, India. Investigations such as complete blood count (CBC), chest x-ray, x-ray abdomen, ultrasound of the abdomen and CECT of the abdomen were done. A total of 57 patients were studied and the results obtained were analysed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infection with Entamoeba histolytica and associated complications are relatively rare in developed countries. The overall low prevalence in the Western world as well as the possibly prolonged latency period between infection with the causing pathogen and onset of clinical symptoms may delay diagnosis of and adequate treatment for amoebiasis. Amoebic liver abscess (ALA) is the most common extraintestinal manifestation of invasive amoebiasis. Pregnancy has been described as a risk factor for development of invasive amoebiasis and management of these patients is especially complex.Case Presentation: A 30-year-old Caucasian woman in early pregnancy presented to our emergency department with abdominal pain alongside elevated inflammatory markers and liver function tests. Travel history revealed multiple journeys to tropic and subtropic regions during the past decade and a prolonged episode of intermittently bloody diarrhea during a five month stay in Indonesia seven years prior to admission. Sonographic and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 5 × 4 cm hepatic abscess. After ultrasound-guided transcutaneous liver drainage, both abscess fluids and blood cultures showed neither bacterial growth nor microscopic signs of parasitic disease. Serological testing confirmed an infection with Entamoeba histolytica, which was treated with metronidazole, followed by eradication therapy with paromomycin. Subsequent clinical, laboratory and imaging follow-up exams showed regression of the ALA. In addition, the pregnancy completed without complications and a healthy baby boy was born 7 months after termination of treatment.Conclusions: This case of invasive amoebiasis in early pregnancy outside of endemic regions and several years after exposure demonstrates the importance of broad differential diagnostics in the context of liver abscesses. The complex interdisciplinary decisions regarding the choice of imaging techniques as well as interventional and antibiotic therapy in the context of pregnancy are discussed. Furthermore, we present possible explanations for pregnancy as a risk factor for an invasive course of amoebiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main effector mechanisms of neutrophils are the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and myeloperoxidase (MPO). In this work, we evaluated the role of NETs and the activity of MPO in the interactions of rodent neutrophils with amoebae and in amoebic liver abscess (ALA)‐resistant and ALA‐susceptible models. We showed with in vitro assays that mice produced greater amounts of NETs and MPO than did hamsters, and the elastase activity was high in both models. However, the inhibition of NETs and MPO promoted an increase in amoeba viability in the mice. The mouse ALAs showed a more profound presence of NETs and MPO than did the hamster ALAs. We concluded that both effector mechanisms were essential for the amoebic damage and could prevent the formation of ALAs in the resistant model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amoebiasis is a disease caused by Entamoeba histolytica , affecting the large intestine of humans and occasionally leading to extra-intestinal lesions. Entamoeba dispar is another amoeba species considered commensal, although it has been identified in patients presenting with dysenteric and nondysenteric colitis, as well as amoebic liver abscess. Amoebic virulence factors are essential for the invasion and development of lesions. There is evidence showing that the association of enterobacteria with trophozoites contributes to increased gene expression of amoebic virulence factors. Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli is an important bacterium causing diarrhea, with high incidence rates in the world population, allowing it to interact with Entamoeba sp. in the same host. In this context, this study aims to evaluate the influence of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli on ACFN and ADO Entamoeba dispar strains by quantifying the gene expression of virulence factors, including galactose/N-acetyl-D-galactosamine-binding lectin, cysteine proteinase 2, and amoebapores A and C. Additionally, the study assesses the progression and morphological aspect of amoebic liver abscess and the profile of inflammatory cells. Our results demonstrated that the interaction between EPEC and ACFN Entamoeba dispar strains was able to increase the gene expression of virulence factors, as well as the lesion area and the activity of the inflammatory infiltrate. However, the association with the ADO strain did not influence the gene expression of virulence factors. Together, our findings indicate that the interaction between EPEC, ACFN, and ADO Entamoeba dispar strains resulted in differences in vitro and in vivo gene expression of Gal/GalNAc-binding lectin and CP2, in enzymatic activities of MPO, NAG, and EPO, and consequently, in the ability to cause lesions. [Display omitted] • E. dispar strains respond differently to association with EPEC. • E. dispar strains are capable of causing liver damage. • The interaction between EPEC and E. dispar strains elicited variations in amoebic virulence and pathogenicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver abscess in pregnancy is a rare entity and can be a life threatening condition. Here we present A case of amoebic liver abscess in 25 years old lady in third trimester of pregnancy, with highlights on treatment difficulties which we had faced in the management and timely intervention leads to good fetomaternal outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entamoeba histolytica (E. histolytica) is a facultative protozoan parasite implicated in amoebic liver abscesses (ALA), the most common extraintestinal manifestation of this infection. E. histolytica is endemic to sub-tropical and tropical countries and has been a major public health concern in northern Sri Lanka (SLK) for the last three decades. This has been attributed to a multitude of factors such as poor sanitation, hygiene, male sex, middle age, overcrowding, unsanitary practices in the production of indigenous alcoholic beverages, and alcohol consumption. Additionally, while rates of E. histolytica have declined substantially throughout the rest of the island, largely due to better infrastructure, it remains pervasive in the northern peninsula, which is generally less developed. Infection arises primarily from fecal-oral transmission through the consumption of contaminated drinking water containing cysts. Upon ingestion, cysts multiply into trophozoites and colonize the host colonic mucosa using lectin and cysteine proteases as virulence factors, leading to host invasion. Symptoms occur along a spectrum, from asymptomatology, to pyrexia, abdominal cramping, and amoebic dysentery. Colonization of the colon results in the formation of distinct flask-shaped ulcers along the epithelium, and eventual penetration of the lamina propria via the production of matrix metalloproteinases. ALA then develops through trophozoite migration via the mesenteric hepatic portal circulation, where microabscesses coalesce to form a single, large right-lobe abscess, commonly on the posterior aspect. The progression of infection to invasive disease is contingent on the unique interplay between host and pathogen factors, such as the strength of host-immunity to overcome infection and inherent pathogenicity of the Entamoeba species. As a preventable illness, E. histolytica complications such as ALA impose a significant burden on the healthcare system. This mini-review highlights epidemiological trends, risk factors, diagnostic modalities, treatment approaches, and opportunities for prevention of E. histolytica-induced ALA, to help address this endemic problem on the island of SLK. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver abscess in pregnancy is a rare entity and can be a life threatening condition. Here we present A case of amoebic liver abscess in 25 years old lady in of pregnancy, with highlights on treatment third trimester difficulties which we had faced in the management and timely intervention leads to good fetomaternal outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, Entamoeba histolytica clones derived from isolate HM-1:IMSS that differ in their pathogenicity were identified. Whereas some clones induce amoebic liver abscesses (ALAs) in animal models of amoebiasis, others provoke only minimal liver lesions. Based on transcriptome studies of pathogenic and nonpathogenic clones, differentially expressed genes associated with reduced or increased liver pathology can be identified. Here, to analyze the influence of these genes on ALA formation in more detail, an RNA interference-trigger mediated silencing approach was used. Using newly identified trigger sequences, the expression of 15 genes was silenced. The respective transfectants were analyzed for their ability to induce liver destruction in the murine model for the disease. Silencing of EHI_180390 (encoding an AIG1 protein) increased liver pathology induced by a nonpathogenic parent clone, whereas silencing of EHI_127670 (encoding a hypothetical protein) decreased the pathogenicity of an initially pathogenic parent clone. Additional phenotypical in vitro analyses of EHI_127670 silencing as well as overexpression transfectants indicated that this molecule has an influence on size, growth, and cysteine peptidase activity of E. histolytica. This work describes an example of how the sole operational method for effective gene silencing in E. histolytica can be used for comprehensive analyses of putative pathogenicity factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amoebic Liver Abscess (ALA) is a most common extraintestinal manifestation of amoebiasis which is most commonly present with high grade fever with right upper quadrant abdominal pain. Here we present a case of 32 year male patient newly diagnosed as People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) with ALA. Patient was treated with Metronidazole (500 mg 8 hourly) and therapeutic drainage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this review is to highlight the importance of research in immunology and its application in the clinical setting. The first part presents the most important discoveries that helped to elucidate the main physiological processes involved in the diseases and in this way helped to redirect research in immunology. Then, we describe an example of basic research related to the role of cytokines in the amoebic liver abscess, showing the work of several research groups in the world, with the aim of understanding the immune response against the parasite. This allows us to argue the relevance of immunological research within the clinical context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An Intact Parasite Antigen ELISA (IPA-ELISA) has been developed for detection of circulating antibodies against Entamoeba. histolytica. Axenically grown trophozoites of E.histolytica (NIH-200) after glutaraldehyde treatment, are used as Intact Parasite Antigen (IPA) as well biological active and imperishable base. Antigen over the surface of treated cells were allowed to interact with the antibody molecules of the test sera. The techniques of Plate, Dot-and IPA-ELISA are compared of their merits for clinical and epidemiological survey of amoebiasis. IPA-ELISA was found to be more sensitive (96.8%) and specific (92.3%) in detecting circulating antibodies compared to Plate-ELISA (sensitivity 90.5%, specificity 84.6%) and Do-ELISA (sensitivity 92.1%, specificity 86.1%). The entire IPA-ELISA test could be completed within 3 hours. Costwise IPA-ELISA is several times lesser than Dot-and Plate-ELISA. This test is most suitable for field and clinical trials for suspected cases of amoebiasis with no skilled hand required for diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clinically diagnosed amoebic liver abscess (ALA) caused by Entamoeba histolytica has been an important public health problem in Jaffna district, northern Sri Lanka for last three decades. In order to draw up a control strategy for elimination of this condition, knowledge of its epidemiology and factors associated with this condition in the local context is vital.Methods: All clinically diagnosed ALA patients admitted to the Teaching Hospital, Jaffna during the study period were included in the study and the data were collected using an interviewer administered questionnaire. One hundred blood samples from randomly selected toddy (a local alcoholic drink consisting of the fermented sap of the Palmyrah palm) consumers and 200 toddy samples were collected. Toddy samples were cultured in Robinson's medium to establish the presence of Entamoeba histolytica in the sample. Climatic data and the total toddy sales in the district were obtained from the Meteorological and Excise Departments respectively. A sub group of randomly selected 100 patients were compared with 100 toddy consumers who were negative for E. histolytica antibody to explore the potential risk factors.Results: Between July 2012 and July 2015, 346 of 367 ALA patients were enrolled in this study. Almost all patients (98.6%) were males with a history of heavy consumption of alcohol (100%). Almost all (94.2%) were within the age group 31-50 years. None of the cultured toddy samples grew E. histolytica. The monthly incidence of disease peaked in the dry season, matching the total toddy sales in the district. Age, type of alcohol and frequency of drinking were identified as potential risk factors whereas frequency of alcohol consumption and type of alcohol (consuming toddy and arrack) were identified as the independent risk factors. Moreover, the knowledge, attitude and practices towards ALA were poor among participants and the control group.Conclusions: Though the number of cases has declined in recent years, ALA still remains as an important public health problem in Jaffna district. The transmission route of E. histolytica leading to ALA has to be further explored. Moreover, greater awareness among the public who are at risk would be beneficial in order to eliminate the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amoebiasis is a parasitic infection caused by the intestinal protozoan Entamoeba histolytica, most prevalent in developing countries. It results in 40,000 to 100,000 deaths each year from amoebic colitis and extra intestinal infections. Amoebic liver abscess (ALA) is the most common extra intestinal site of infection with an incidence of between 3% and 9% of all cases of amoebiasis. Ultrasound which has a sensitivity of more than 90% for detecting ALA is highly recommended as an initial investigation followed by serological demonstration of circulating antibodies specific to Entamoeba histolytica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crude soluble antigen (CSA) produced from Entamoeba histolytica trophozoite is conventionally used for serodiagnosis of invasive amoebiasis. However, high background seropositivities by CSA-assay in endemic areas complicate the interpretation of positive result in clinical settings. Instead, incorporating a second assay which indicates active or recent infection into the routine amoebic serology could possibly complement the limitations of CSA-assay. Hence, the present study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic efficacies of indirect ELISAs using CSA and excretory-secretory antigen (ESA) for serodiagnosis of amoebic liver abscess (ALA). Reference standard for diagnosis of ALA at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia is based on clinical presentation, radiological imaging and positive indirect haemagglutination assay (titer ≥256). Five groups of human serum samples collected from the hospital included Group I – ALA diagnosed by the reference standard and pus aspirate analysis using real-time PCR (n = 10), Group II – ALA diagnosed by the reference standard only (n = 41), Group III – healthy control (n = 45), Group IV – other diseases control (n = 51) and Group V – other infectious diseases control (n = 31). For serodiagnosis of ALA serum samples (Group I and II), CSA-ELISA showed sensitivities of 100% for both groups, while ESA-ELISA showed sensitivities of 100% and 88%, respectively. For serodiagnosis of non-ALA serum samples (Group III, IV and V), CSA-ELISA showed specificities of 91%, 75% and 100%, respectively; while ESA-ELISA showed specificities of 96%, 98% and 100%, respectively. Indirect ELISAs using CSA and ESA have shown distinct strength for serodiagnosis of ALA, in terms of sensitivity and specificity, respectively. In conclusion, parallel analysis by both assays improved the overall efficacies of amoebic serology as compared to either single assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive amoebiasis is a life-threatening infection requiring immediate detection and treatment. However, diagnosis is challenging because conventional methods such as light microscopy and serology are unreliable. Molecular techniques are therefore considered the new diagnostic reference standard, but most of the developed assays are research tools and not widely available. Recently commercial multiplex PCR panels have been introduced which permit the simultaneous detection of multiple enteric pathogens including Entamoeba histolytica in stool samples. Our report demonstrates for the first time that these new assays might also serve as a rapid tool to diagnose amoebic liver abscess in patients with cystic focal liver lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entamoeba histolytica is the causative agent of amoebic liver abscess (ALA), which course with an uncontrolled inflammation and nitro-oxidative stresses, although it is well known that amoeba has an effective defence mechanisms against this toxic environment, the underlying molecular factors responsible for progression of tissue damage remain largely unknown. The purpose of the present study was to determine during the acute stage of ALA in hamsters, the involvement of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), which are activated in response to oxidative stress. From 12 h post-infection the ALA was visible, haematoxylin-eosin and Masson's trichrome stains were consistent with these observations, and alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase serum activities were increased too. At 48 h after infection, liver glycogen content was significantly reduced. Western blot analyses showed that 4-Hydroxy-2-nonenal peaked at 12 h, while glycogen synthase kinase-3β, cleaved caspase-3, pNF-κB, interleukin-1β and tumour necrosis factor-α were overexpressed from 12 to 48 h post-infection. Otherwise, Nrf2 and superoxide dismutase-1, decreased at 48 h and catalase declined at 36 and 48 h. Furthermore, heme oxygenase-1 was increased at 12 and 24 h and decreased to normal levels at 36 and 48 h. These findings suggest for the first time that the host antioxidant system of Nrf2 is influenced during ALA. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Since 1985, amoebic liver abscess (ALA) has been a public health problem in northern Sri Lanka. Clinicians arrive at a diagnosis based on clinical and ultrasonographic findings, which cannot differentiate pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) from ALA. As the treatment and outcome of the ALA and PLA differs, determining the etiological agent is crucial. Methods: All clinically diagnosed ALA patients admitted to the Teaching Hospital (TH) in Jaffna during the study period were included and the clinical features, haematological parameters, and ultrasound scanning findings were obtained. Aspirated pus, blood, and faecal samples from patients were also collected. Pus and faeces were examined microscopically for amoebae. Pus was cultured in Robinson's medium for amoebae, and MacConkey and blood agar for bacterial growth. ELISA kits were used for immunodiagnosis of Entamoeba histolytica infection. DNA was extracted from selected pus samples and amplified using nested PCR and the purified product was sequenced. Results: From July 2012 to July 2015, 346 of 367 clinically diagnosed ALA patients admitted to Jaffna Teaching Hospital were enrolled in this study. Almost all patients (98.6%) were males with a history of heavy alcohol consumption (100%). The main clinical features were fever (100%), right hypochodric pain (100%), tender hepatomegaly (90%) and intercostal tenderness (60%). Most patients had leukocytosis (86.7%), elevated ESR (85.8%) and elevated alkaline phosphatase (72.3%). Most of the abscesses were in the right lobe (85.3%) and solitary (76.3%) in nature. Among the 221 (63.87%) drained abscesses, 93.2% were chocolate brown in colour with the mean volume of 41.22 ± 1.16 ml. Only four pus samples (2%) were positive for amoeba by culture and the rest of the pus and faecal samples were negative microscopically and by culture. Furthermore, all pus samples were negative for bacterial growth. Antibody against E. histolytica (99.7%) and the E. histolytica antigen were detected in the pus samples (100%). Moreover, PCR and sequencing confirmed these results. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first report from Sri Lanka that provides immunological and molecular confirmation that Entamoeba histolytica is a common cause of liver abscesses in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unfortunately, there is confusion among the medical community regarding the management of amoebic liver abscess (ALA). Therapeutic options range from simple pharmacotherapy to use of interventions like a needle or catheter aspiration under ultrasound guidance to surgical intervention. There is a plethora of thresholds for parameters such as the maximum diameter of the abscess and volume on ultrasound examination suggested by various authors to serve as a criterion to help to decide when to use which modality in these cases.~Context~Background~To assess the outcome of patients with uncomplicated ALA treated using a conservative approach. Moreover, to identify factors associated with its failure.~Aims~Objective~A prospective, observational study was carried out at a large municipal urban health care center over a period of 3-year (2011-2014) in India.~Settings and Design~Methods~Patients with uncomplicated ALA were recruited. All patients were managed with pharmacotherapy initially for a period of 72 h. Response to treatment was assessed by resolution of symptoms within the given time frame. Failure to respond was considered an indication for intervention. Needle aspiration was offered to these patients and response assessed within 72 h. Failure to respond to aspiration was considered an indication for catheter drainage.~Materials and Methods~Methods~Data recorded were entered in a Microsoft Office Excel Sheet and analyzed using the SPSS version 16.0 (IBM).~Statistical Analysis Used~Methods~Sixty patients with ALA were included in the study over its duration. Forty-nine (81.67%) patients were managed conservatively, while 11 (18.33%) patients needed an intervention for relief. Patients who required intervention had deranged liver function at presentation, a larger abscess diameter (10.09 ± 2.23 vs. 6.33 ± 1.69 cm P < 0.001) and volume (399.73 ± 244.46 vs. 138.34 ± 117.85 ml, P < 0.001) compared to those who did not need it. Patients that required intervention had a longer length of hospital stay (7.1 ± 2.4 vs. 4.8 ± 0.9 days, P < 0.001). On post hoc analysis, a maximum diameter of >7.7 cm was found to be the optimal criterion to predict the need of intervention in cases of ALA.~Results~Results~A conservative approach is effective in the management of ALA for a majority of patients. Failure of conservative management was predicted by the size of the abscess (maximum diameter >7.7 cm). Even in the cases of failure, a gradual step-up with interventions was found to be safe and effective.~Conclusions~Conclusions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Liver abscess is a major health problem in tropical and subtropical regions. Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate the clinical profile, management of amoebic liver abscess patients. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Department of Surgery MNR Medical College Hospital, Sangareddy over a period of 2 years from June 2014 to July 2016. A total of 100 patients with liver abscess were included in this study. Clinical examination, detail case history, ultrasonography reports, case management and outcome were recorded during study. Results: Among 100 patients, 88 were males and 12 were females. Majority of cases were belongs to the age group of 30-40 years (45%). Most common clinical features of amoebic liver abscess was fever (89%), abdominal pain (78%) and diarrhoea (37%). The major signs were hepatomegaly (87%), right lobe abscess (68%), left lobe abscess (36%) and pleural effusion (18%). Mortality rate was 3% out of 100 patients. Conclusion: According to our study percutaneous needle aspiration with antiprotozoal drugs showed better results for the management of amoebic liver abscess. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Diagnosis of amoebiasis is based on combination of tests like microscopy, imaging, serology and molecular methods. In absence of molecular techniques, serology can be used as an alternative aid. Various serological techniques were reported with different sensitivity and specificity. The diagnostic efficiency of these assays mainly depends on the characteristics of antigen that is being used and various conditions of performance. Aim: To evaluate the efficiency of recombinant calcium binding domain containing protein by Indirect Haemagglutination Assay (IHA) against a commercial ELISA among amoebic liver abscess cases and control group. Materials and Methods: The study was carried out during the period of 2011-2015 and blood samples were collected from suspected amoebiasis cases who were attending the clinics of Medicine and Paediatrics department, JIPMER. A total of 200 sera samples which included 100 Amoebic Liver Abscess (ALA), 50 cases of other parasitic infections and liver diseases and 50 presumed healthy controls were examined by IHA and commercial ELISA. In brief, chick cells were stabilized by Double Aldehyde Sensitization (DAS) method. Optimum Sensitizing Dose (OSD) of the antigen was determined. The test was performed in a U-bottomed microtiter plate with recombinant amoebic antigen (12.5μg/ml), incubated at Room Temperature (RT) for 2 hours. RIDASCREEN Entamoeba IgG ELISA kit which is commercially available was used to evaluate the samples as per manufacturer's instruction. Results: The overall sensitivity and specificity of the IHA was 62% and 96%, respectively when compared to ELISA having sensitivity and specificity of 69% and 90%, respectively. The positive predictive value of the IHA was 91% while negative predictive value was 79%. Similarly, the positive predictive value of the ELISA was 87% while negative predictive value was 74%. Conclusion: As serology heavily suffers due to lack of a standardised test system employing the native antigen, there arises need to identify alternative source of recombinant antigen which could effectively improvise the existing lacunae in the current system. Serology acts as an adjunct in clinical decision making if properly interpreted. This is an important consideration in endemic region where health services resources are limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The disease profile in the Indian population provides a unique opportunity for studying the host microbiome interaction in both infectious (amebiasis) and autoimmune diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) from a similar environment and genetic background. Analysis of fecal samples from untreated amebic liver abscess (ALA) patients, Entamoeba histolytica (Eh)-negative and -positive asymptomatic individuals, and pus samples from naive ALA patients revealed a significant reduction in Lactobacillus in asymptomatic individuals (Eh +ve) and ALA patients. Two anaerobic genera, namely Bacteroides and Peptostreptococcus, were detected in naive ALA pus samples. Analysis of fecal samples from amoebic colitis patients showed a significant decline in population of Bacteroides, Clostridium coccoides and leptum subgroup, Lactobacillus, Campylobacter, and Eubacterium, whereas a significant increase in Bifidobacterium was observed. Mucosa-associated bacterial flora analysis from IBD patients and healthy controls revealed a significant difference in concentration of bacteria among predominating and subdominating genera between ulcerative colitis (UC), Crohn's disease (CD) patients, and controls. In contrast to the mucosal studies, we found a significant increase in lactobacilli population in fecal samples of active UC patients. Another study revealed a significant decrease of Clostridium coccoides and leptum clusters in fecal samples of active UC patients along with decreased concentrations of fecal SCFAs, especially of n-butyrate, iso-butyrate, and acetate. We therefore found similar perturbations in gut microbiome in both infectious and autoimmune diseases, indicating inflammation to be the major driver for changes in gut microbiome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Amoebic liver abscess (ALA), which is caused by Entamoeba histolytica a protozoa is common and serious extra-intestinal manifestation of amoebiasis. ALA is prevalent in areas of poor sanitation and hygiene. It has varied clinical presentations and complications. This study highlights the recent clinical trends of ALA. Material and Methods: This study was a hospital based prospective observational study. All patients admitted from March to December 2011 with the diagnosis of ALA were included. Demographic and clinical history was recorded and the systematic examination was done to understand disease pattern. Clinical diagnosis was supported and confirmed by ultrasound abdomen and positive amoebic serology. The outcome of the patient was recorded at discharge. Data was analysed using SPSS 17. Results: Out of total 100 ALA Patients, 72% were from urban slums, 88% were uneducated and belonged to low socioeconomic status. 76% were alcoholic, 52% patients were in age group of 21-40 yrs with male preponderance (89%). Commonest presenting symptom was pain in right hypochondrium (94%)while jaundice was noticed in only 4%. Mean duration of symptoms before hospitalization was 10 days. Personal & family history was not contributory. Hepatomeagly was present in 52%. Mean TLC -- 13694, Bilirubin -- 1.27 mg%. Serum Alkaline Phosphatase -- 698 IU. X ray showed raised right diaphragm in 50% cases. On USG Examination 7% located in left lobe of liver and 84% were more than 5 cm in size. Multiple abscesses in 21%. Amoebic Serology was positive in all patients. Mean duration of hospitalization was 7 days. Management was done with metronidazole, antibiotics and/or percutaneous aspiration. Rupture occurred in 10%. One patient died of DIC. Conclusion: ALA is a medically treatable common infection prevalent in developing countries due to lack of sanitation and hygiene .Health education and adequate sanitation are imperative in preventing amoebic infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of conservative medical treatment versus minimal invasive surgical techniques like percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD) and percutaneous needle aspiration (P NA) in the management of liver abscess. Material and methods: All patients with liver abscess who were admitted in Surgery from October 2013 to June 2014 were included in this study and were exposed to four different treatment modalities. The patients were first treated with combination of medicine (Option - A). If they failed to respond to this treatment then they were subjected to ultrasound guided aspiration (Option - B). If Option - B failed they were exposed to pig tail catheter placement (Option - C). Final option was surgical drainage (Option - D) if it was rupture liver abscess and if the patient presented with co morbid conditions like septicaemia and peritonitis. PNA was repeated every third day if the cavity size had not declined to 50% of the original for up to three times. Persistence of cavity or of clinical symptoms was considered failure of treatment. Results: Out of 51 patients, 14 patients responded to drug therapy alone. 34 patients required ultrasound guided aspiration and Pig tail catheter placement and 3 patients required open surgical drainage. A combination of drug therapy and ultrasound guided needle aspiration was effective for majority of 83% patients Duration of hospital stay was similar in the two groups. Conclusion: Minimal surgical interventions like PCD and PNA are better than conservative treatment for the management of liver abscesses of size >5 cm, in terms of duration to attain clinical relief and duration for which parenteral antibiotics are needed. Pyogenic liver abscess are less common than amoebic liver abscess. Right lobe of the liver is most commonly involved in both types of abscesses. Radio-imaging techniques like ultrasonography (US) and computerized tomography (CT) are the modalities of choice for investigation purposes. Treatment modalities of these abscesses, first emphasizes on medical treatment, but if it is unsuccessful then only the surgical intervention should be taken up. Laparotomy and Drainage or Laparoscopic Drainage remains the standard of care for ruptured liver abscess. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bronchobiliary fistula (BBF), a rare complication of liver disease, is an abnormal communication between the biliary tract and bronchial tree. BBF may occur as a consequence of local liver infections such as hydatid or amebic disease, pyogenic liver abscess or trauma to the liver, obstruction of biliary tract, and tumor. As such management of liver disease with BBF is very difficult and often associated with a high rate of morbidity and mortality. Therefore, timely diagnosis of BBF is imperative. Hepatobiliary scintigraphy along with hybrid single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography using Tc99m-mebrofenin is a very useful noninvasive imaging modality, in the diagnosis of BBF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Amoebic liver abscess presents with severe pain and high grade fever and if not diagnosed and treated promptly, may lead to complications and mortality. Aim and objectives: The objective of the present study was to estimate the incidence, need for aspiration and prognosis. The diagnosis was based on clinical features, positive Elisa test, ultrasonography, aspiration of anchovy sauce from the liver lesion, isolation of E. Histolytica (cyst/trophozoite) from the stool of the patient. Result: We had 65 cases in the study. There were 52 males & 13 females with a ratio of 4:1. Solitary abscess was found in 48(73.8%) patients which are located as follows; right lobe(43), left lobe(2) and in both lobe(3). 9% were aspirated at presentation due to their size or position. Only 4 (2%) were aspirated at first follow-up on third day due to non resolution of pain or fever or increase in size. All the patients are responded to standard treatment of metronidazole. Amoebic liver abscess is a common diagnosis in our setup. Conclusion: Clinical background and sonogram give a reasonable suggestion about amoebic etiology. If initial aspiration is not indicated due to size larger than10 cm or proximity to surface, conservative treatment with oral or intravenous metronidazole is successful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Liver abscess is a burning problem in tropical nations, with often lethal consequences and diagnostic/therapeutic challenges. We have determined etiopathology, clinical, radiological, and bacteriological characteristics of this condition and review its management strategies. Materials and Methods: During the period of the month from May 2007 to September 2009, a prospective study was performed involving 125 patients admitted to the in-patient ward of the Department of General Surgery of N.R.S Medical College their diagnosis was made on the basis of clinical features (such as right upper abdomen pain, and fever), laboratory investigations and radiological evidence of liver abscess. Results: Amoebic liver abscess was the most common (88%) type of liver abscess among the study groups. There was a strong correlation with the occurrence of liver abscesses and addiction to alcohol, history of diabetes mellitus and low socioeconomic status. The most common etiology of pyogenic liver abscess was Escherichia coli. Ultrasonography (USG) of the abdomen was accurate and cost-effective in diagnosis of liver abscesses. Percutaneous catheter drainage was the most effective method of treatment (with a 100% success rate). Conclusion: Most patients in our study had liver abscess of amoebic origin and had temporal relationship with diabetes, alcoholism, and staggering socioeconomic status. We suggest early recognition of clinical features and prompt abdominal USG as cost-effective means for treatment initiation and reducing complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An inflammation is generated during formation of Amoebic Liver Abscess. We analyzed chemically sympathectomized hamsters with Amoebic Liver Abscess, in a period between 6 hours to 7 days. The liver tissue samples were analyzed by haematoxylin and eosin staining, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and morphometry. Sympathectomy caused a lower production of collagen and absence of granuloma tissue of Amoebic Liver Abscess. At the 6 h of development, proinflammatory cytokines were reduced, also reduced 12 hours - 7 days; while IL-10 production was incresed for this time; Transforming Growth Factor- producing cells only increased from 4 to 7 days. Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells were diminished throughout the Amoebic Liver Abscess, while Toll Like Receptor 4 + macrophages decreased in the period of 2 to 7 days; and Toll Like Receptor 4 + neutrophils decreased between 4 and 7 days. The population of trophozoites was increased in sympathectomized animals between 4 and 7 days. The chemical sympathectomy reduces the collagen deposition and induces an anti-inflammatory state during the development of Amoebic Liver Abscess, then; allows the spread and reproduction of Entamoeba histolytica trophozoites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Amoebic liver abscess (ALA) is a common and major health problem in India. ALA has a highly variable presentation, causing diagnostic difficulties. Early and correct diagnosis of Amoebic liver abscess is essential, because delayed diagnosis and treatment leads to complications which has significantly higher morbidity and mortality than uncomplicated disease. Objective To find out different clinical presentation and its differential diagnosis in order to establish early diagnosis of ALA. Patients and Methods This retrospective, observational study was carried out in the Department of Surgery during February 2010 to May 2013. Inclusion criteria were defined. The data of patients were enrolled according to variables in performa predesigned for this study and analyzed. Results 187 cases of ALA were enrolled with male to female ratio of 2.8:1. Right hypochondrial pain occurred in 69.52%, left hypochondrial pain occurred in 6.41%, pain radiating to tip of right shoulder in 8.02%, fever in 86.64%, co-incident diarrhea in 36.37% and concurrent pulmonary symptoms in 12.84%. The most common signs were tender hepatomegaly in 73.74% and jaundice in 17.65%. 3.20% patients had past history of aspiration of ALA. 23.52% patients had ruptured abscess. 11.12% were due to delayed diagnosis and 1.60% was ruptured despite treatment. Mortality rate was 3.20% amongst patients with ruptured ALA. Diabetes, hypertension, AIDS and alcoholism were commonly associated co morbidities. Right lobe (82.36%) is commonly involved than left lobe and single abscess (83.42%) was more common than multiple abscess. Diagnosis was missed in 30.48% patients particularly those with atypical presentations. Ultrasonography, Computerized tomography (CT) scan with diagnostic aspiration were useful in diagnosing ALA. Conclusion The typical features of ALA, which include pain, fever and tender hepatomegaly, are nonspecific. ALA may be missed because of variable clinical features and atypical presentation. A high index of clinical suspicion in patients from an endemic area and low socioeconomic class combined with ultrasonography, US aspiration and CT scan will improve the diagnostic accuracy to reduce catastrophic complication as a result of delayed diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Amoebic liver abscess (ALA) is the most common clinical manifestation of extraintestinal amoebiasis especially in developing countries, causing up to 100 000 fatal cases annually. Accurate and early diagnosis is important to prevent the disease complications, however its diagnosis still poses many challenges due to the limitations of the available detection tools. Pyruvate phosphate dikinase (PPDK), an excretory-secretory protein of E. histolytica, has been reported as a potential diagnostic marker for ALA, hence it may be exploited in the development of a new test for ALA. Methods Recombinant PPDK (rPPDK) was expressed, purified and evaluated by Western blot. In parallel, recombinant galactose-and-N-acetyl-D-galactosamine inhibitable lectin (Gal/GaNAc lectin) was produced and tested similarly. The protein identity was confirmed by analysis using MALDI-TOF/TOF. A lateral flow dipstick (LFD) test using rPPDK was subsequently developed (rPPDK-LFD) and evaluated for serodiagnosis of ALA. Results rPPDK was expressed as soluble protein after 4 hours of induction with 1 mM isopropyl β-D- 1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) at 30°C. Purification using nickel-nitrilotriacetic acid (Ni- NTA) resin yielded 1.5 mg of rPPDK from 1 L of culture with estimated molecular mass of 98 kDa on SDS-PAGE. Western blots using sera from patients with ALA, healthy individuals and other diseases probed with anti-human IgG4-HRP showed the highest sensitivity (93.3%) and specificity (100%); as compared to blots using IgG and IgG1 as secondary antibodies. Moreover, rPPDK showed better specificity when compared to rGal/GalNAc lectin. In the development of the LFD test, the optimum amount of rPPDK was 0.625 μg per dipstick and the optimum working concentration of colloidal gold conjugated anti-human IgG4 was optical density (OD) 5 (1.7 μg of anti-human IgG4). Evaluation of rPPDK-LFD using ALA patients and controls serum samples showed 87% diagnostic sensitivity and 100% specificity. Conclusion The developed rPPDK-LFD showed good potential for rapid diagnosis of ALA, and merit further multicentre validation using larger number of serum samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amoebic liver abscess is a complication of amoebiasis that needs early diagnosis and proper treatment before further complications occur. We report a-35 year old female presented by fever and dyspnea due to huge liver abscess complicated by massive right side empyema. The patient was effectively treated by percutaneous drainage for both the right lobe abscess and empyema together with pharmacologic agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Genealogies show no lineages related to a geographic region or infection outcome. [•] Genealogies revealed that most haplotypes are distributed exclusively in one country. [•] Entamoeba histolytica HMI:IMSS D-A and NK-2 haplotypes are widely distributed worldwide. [•] A concatenated analysis suggests the possibility of genetic recombination events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: It has been claimed that amoebic molecules such as amoebapore, galactose/N-acetyl galactosamine inhibitable lectin, and cysteine proteases are responsible for host tissue destruction and are present in both pathogenic Entamoeba histolytica and non-pathogenic Entamoeba dispar. Some reports have provided evidence that after infection with E. dispar, pathological changes may occur in some humans. The aim of this study was to evaluate E. dispar pathogenicity by comparing it to the pathogenicity of E. histolytica through liver abscesses induced in hamsters. Syrian golden hamsters were challenged by intrahepatic inoculation with the 03C E. dispar strain or with two strains of E. histolytica (HM1:IMSS and EGG) to compare their virulence grades. As control groups, we used bacterial flora and Pavlova’s modified medium. Lesions were verified at 1, 3 and 6days after inoculation. Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction was performed to characterize each strain using EdP1/EdP2 and EhP1/EhP2 primers. The EGG and HM1:IMSS E. histolytica strains and 03C E. dispar were able to cause liver lesions. The EGG strain caused extensive hepatic abscesses, and trophozoites were found in the lesions throughout the three periods of study. The HM1:IMSS strain caused smaller abscesses when compared to EGG lesions; however, trophozoites were observed at 1 and 3days after inoculation. The 03C E. dispar strain caused intermediate abscesses when compared to the others; trophozoites were observed in all periods analyzed. The EGG strain caused progressive evolution of the injury, which differed from the HM1:IMSS and 03C strains. These results strongly suggest that the 03C E. dispar strain is pathogenic in the experimental hamster model. Additional studies are necessary to identify potential factors that regulate the manifestation of virulence of this strain and others. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Amoebic liver abscess (ALA) is the most frequent clinical presentation of extra-intestinal amoebiasis. The diagnosis of ALA is typically based on the developing clinical symptoms, characteristic changes on radiological imaging and serology. Numerous serological tests have been introduced for the diagnosis of ALA, either detecting circulating amoebic antigens or antibodies. However those tests show some pitfalls in their efficacy and/or the preparation of the tests are costly and tedious. The commercial IHA kit that used crude antigen was reported to be useful in diagnosis of ALA, however high antibody background in endemic areas may cause problems in its interpretation. Thus, discovery of well-defined antigen(s) is urgently needed to improve the weaknesses of current serodiagnostic tests. Methods: Crude antigen of E. histolytica was analysed by 2-DE and Western blot to identify a protein of diagnostic potential for ALA. The corresponding gene of the antigenic protein was then cloned, expressed and the purified recombinant protein was subsequently evaluated for serodiagnosis of ALA in an indirect ELISA format. Results: Analysis of crude antigen showed that phosphoglucomutase (PGM) has the diagnostic potential. Recombinant PGM (rPGM) showed 79.17% (19/24) sensitivity and 86.67% (195/225) specificity in diagnosis of ALA based on the COV of mean +1SD. There was no significant difference between rPGM-ELISA and IHA diagnostic kit in the diagnosis of ALA in terms of sensitivity and specificity at p-value < 0.05. Conclusion: In conclusion, rPGM-ELISA is found to be useful for serodiagnosis of ALA. Future studies will determine whether rPGM-ELISA also detects antibodies produced in amoebic dysentery and asymptomatic cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]