title: Ultrasound-guided needle aspiration of amoebic liver abscess.
abstract: This prospective study was carried out on 200 patients with clinically, ultrasonographically and serologically confirmed amoebic liver abscess. The role of ultrasound-guided needle aspiration in addition to medications was evaluated compared to drug treatment alone. Both the groups were monitored clinically and sonographically for up to 6 months after diagnosis. The initial response (after 15 days) was better in the aspirated group (P < 0.05) but resolution of abscess after 6 months were similar. There was a more rapid clinical response in the aspirated group, particularly in those with larger (> 6 cm) abscesses and there were no complications. Percutaneous ultrasound-guided needle aspiration is a safe diagnostic and therapeutic approach which enhances clinical recovery, accelerates resolution, especially in large abscesses, and prevents complications.
authors.affiliation: Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Karnataka, India.
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Ramani
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Ramani
authors.forename: M S
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Kumar
authors.forename: B N
authors.initials: BN
authors.lastname: Lakhkar
authors.forename: G N
authors.initials: GN
authors.lastname: Kundaje
mesh_terms: D001707:Biopsy, Needle; D002738:Chloroquine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004322:Drainage / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay; D008101:Liver Abscess, Amebic / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D008795:Metronidazole / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013997:Time Factors; D014463:Ultrasonography
chemical_list: D008795:Metronidazole; D002738:Chloroquine