digestive disorders
Abdominal Abscesses
Introduction
An abscess is a pocket of pus, usually caused by a bacterial infection. Most people have constant abdominal pain and a fever. Computed tomography or another imaging test can distinguish an abscess from other problems. Treatment involves draining pus from the abscess and taking antibiotics. (See also Overview of Gastrointestinal Emergencies .) Abdominal abscesses may form below the diaphragm, in the middle of the abdomen, in the pelvis, or behind the abdominal cavity. Abscesses also may form in or around any abdominal organ, such as the kidneys, spleen, pancreas, or liver, or in the prostate gland. Untreated abscesses can grow and damage nearby blood vessels and organs. Sometimes, bacteria enter the bloodstream ( Sepsis and Septic Shock ) and spread to distant organs and tissues. Such spread can be fatal. 