Liver Abscess

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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What is a liver abscess?

A liver abscess is a collection of pus in the liver caused by bacteria, fungi, or parasites. You may have more than one abscess. The liver makes enzymes and bile that help digest food and gives your body energy. It also removes harmful material from your body, such as alcohol and other chemicals.

What increases my risk for a liver abscess?

• Traveling to places where infection is common
• Age older than 70 years
• Medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, or a weak immune system
• Medicines, such as steroids or chemotherapy
• Alcohol
• Poor nutrition

What are the signs and symptoms of a liver abscess?

• Pain in the upper right part of the abdomen, just below the ribs
• A cough, or feeling tired and weak
• Fever and night sweats
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes

How is a liver abscess diagnosed?

• Blood tests will show which germ is causing your infection.
• An x-ray, ultrasound, CT, or MRI may show the liver abscess. You may be given contrast dye to help the abscess show up better in the pictures. Tell the healthcare provider if you have ever had an allergic reaction to contrast dye. Do not enter the MRI room with anything metal. Metal can cause serious injury. Tell the healthcare provider if you have any metal in or on your body.

How is a liver abscess treated?

• Medicine can help treat an infection caused by bacteria, a fungus, or a parasite.
• Needle aspiration is a procedure to drain fluid with a needle.
• Catheter drainage is a procedure to drain fluid through a catheter inserted into an incision.
• Surgery may be needed if your abscess is large or if you have more than one. Surgery may also be needed if your abscess bursts.

How can I manage my symptoms?

• Eat a variety of healthy foods. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish.
• Do not drink alcohol. Alcohol can damage your liver and increase your risk for another abscess.

What can I do to prevent the spread of germs?

• Wash your hands often. Wash your hands several times each day. Wash after you use the bathroom, change a child's diaper, and before you prepare or eat food. Use soap and water every time. Rub your soapy hands together, lacing your fingers. Wash the front and back of your hands, and in between your fingers. Use the fingers of one hand to scrub under the fingernails of the other hand. Wash for at least 20 seconds. Rinse with warm, running water. Then dry your hands with a clean towel or paper towel. Use hand sanitizer that contains alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Cover a sneeze or cough. Use a tissue that covers your mouth and nose. Throw the tissue away in a trash can right away. Use the bend of your arm if a tissue is not available. Wash your hands well with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer.
• Stay away from others while you are sick. Avoid crowds as much as possible.
• Ask about vaccines you may need. Your healthcare provider can tell you if you should also get vaccines not listed below:
  • Ask your healthcare provider about the flu and pneumonia vaccines. All adults should get the flu (influenza) vaccine as soon as recommended each year, usually in September or October. The pneumonia vaccine is recommended for all adults aged 50 or older to prevent pneumococcal disease, such as pneumonia. Adults aged 19 to 49 years who are at high risk for pneumococcal disease should also receive the vaccine. You may need 1 dose or 2. The number depends on the vaccine used and your risk factors.
  • COVID-19 vaccines are given to adults as a shot. At least 1 dose of an updated vaccine is recommended for all adults. COVID-19 vaccines are updated throughout the year. Adults 65 or older need a second dose of updated vaccine at least 4 months after the first dose. Your healthcare provider can help you schedule all needed doses as updated vaccines become available.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

• You have sudden trouble breathing.
• You are vomiting or have seizures.

When should I call my doctor?

• You have pain in your abdomen or it feels fuller than normal.
• You have a fever.
• You have a cough or feel weak and achy.
• You have a rash.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Care Agreement

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