Overview
Amebic hepatitis is a liver infection caused by the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica 1. It is a complication of amebiasis, which can also affect the intestines 1.Diagnosis
Diagnosis is typically made based on clinical presentation, serologic testing, and imaging 1.
Amebic liver abscess is the most common extraintestinal manifestation of amebiasis 1.Management
Treatment of amebic liver abscess involves a course of a tissue amebicide, such as metronidazole 1.
Aspiration of the abscess may be considered in cases of large abscesses, lack of clinical improvement, or suspicion of secondary bacterial infection 1.
Follow-up with a luminal amebicide is recommended to eradicate intestinal parasites and prevent relapse 1.Special Populations
No specific information regarding amebic hepatitis in pregnancy, pediatrics, elderly, or patients with comorbidities was found in the provided abstracts.Key Recommendations
Treatment of amebic liver abscess should include a tissue amebicide like metronidazole 1. (Evidence: Moderate)
Aspiration of amebic liver abscesses may be indicated for large abscesses, failure to respond to medical therapy, or if secondary bacterial infection is suspected 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)
Eradication of intestinal parasites with a luminal amebicide is recommended after treatment of amebic liver abscess to prevent recurrence 1. (Evidence: Moderate)References
1 McGrew C, MacCallum DS, Narducci D, Nuti R, Calabrese L, Dimeff R et al.. AMSSM Position Statement Update: Blood-Borne Pathogens in the Context of Sports Participation. Clinical journal of sport medicine : official journal of the Canadian Academy of Sport Medicine 2020. link