A Case of Amebic Liver Abscess with Pleural Effusion in an AIDS Patient

ABSTRACT

Recent studies indicate that there is an increased risk of amebic liver abscess among those infected with HIV, which is associated with cell-mediated immunosuppression. Although Entamoeba histolytica infection is common among HIV infected patients, only a few cases of amebic liver abscess with bilateral pleural effusion have been reported. We present a case of a 44-year-old man who presented with fever and right lower quadrant abdominal pain. Amebic liver abscess with bilateral pleural effusion was confirmed by serologic test, clinical symptoms, and radiological findings. HIV infection was incidentally diagnosed during treatment. The possibility of the presence of amebic liver abscess should be considered in HIV infected patients with space-occupying lesions in the liver, and HIV screening should strongly be recommended in patients with amebic liver abscess.