Failure of Metronidazole to Cure Hepatic Amebic Abscess

Abstract

METRONIDAZOLE (Flagyl) is an effective therapeutic agent for both amebic colitis and hepatic amebic abscess.1 2 3 4 5 6 Treatment failure of hepatic abscess has not been described. This case report represents such a failure.Case ReportA 19-year-old man was admitted to the hospital because of fever and vomiting. Chills and fever had begun 4 days earlier, followed by epigastric discomfort and vomiting. All symptoms persisted until the time of admission. While in Vietnam 1 year previously, he had intermittent bloody diarrhea for which no cause was found and no treatment given. After 4 months the diarrhea ceased and did not recur.Physical . . .