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Intra-abdominal abscess - Overview

Alternative Names

Abscess - intra-abdominal

Definition of Intra-abdominal abscess:

An intra-abdominal abscess is an infected pocket of fluid and pus located inside the belly area (abdominal cavity). There may be more than one abscess.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

An intra-abdominal abscess can be caused by a ruptured appendix, ruptured diverticula, a parasite infection in the intestines (Entamoeba histolytica), or other condition.

Risk factors include a history of appendicitis, diverticulitis, perforated ulcer disease, or any surgery that may have infected the abdominal cavity.

Intra-abdominal abscess, CT scan

Meckels diverticulum

Reviewed last on: 7/17/2008
Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Fry RD, Mahmoud N, Maron J, Ross HM, Rombeau J. Colon and Rectum. In: Townsend CM, Beauchamp RD, Evers BM, Mattox KL, eds. Sabiston Textbook of Surgery. 18th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2008:chap.50.

Marrero F, Qadeer MA, Lashner BA. Severe complications of inflammatory bowel disease. Med Clin North Am. May 2008; 92(3): 671-86, ix.

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