Intra-abdominal abscess

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Intra-abdominal abscess, CT scan

Meckels diverticulum

Abscess - intra-abdominal

Depending on the location, symptoms may include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Abdominal pain and distention
• Weakness
• Lack of appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Rectal tenderness and fullness
• Diarrhea

The white blood cell count may be elevated on a complete blood count test. A CT scan of the abdomen will usually reveal an intra-abdominal abscess. In addition, after a CT scan, a needle may be placed through the skin into the abscess cavity to confirm diagnosis and treat the abscess. Liver function tests, abdominal x-ray, and sonogram may also be helpful in diagnosing abscess.

Sometimes laparotomy (opening of the abdomen, which is done under general anesthesia) may be necessary for diagnosis.

Review Date: 07/14/2006
Reviewed By: J.A. Lee, M.D., Division of Surgery, UCSF, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.