Liver abscess and disseminated intravascular coagulation in tuberculosis

Abstract

We report the case of a 55-year-old man with chronic renal failure, and a history of prolonged fever and jaundice. Radiological studies revealed a multiloculated irregular liver abscess. Mycobacterium tuberculosis was isolated from the abscess on smear and culture of aspirated pus. Haematological studies revealed the presence of disseminated intravascular coagulation. A detailed search failed to identify any reason for this other than the tuberculous infection. The treatment of tuberculous liver abscess and pathogenesis of disseminated intravascular coagulation in tuberculosis are discussed.