Liver Abscess Caused by Klebsiella Pneumoniae in the Absence of Hepatobiliary Disease

Abstract

Klebsiella pneumoniae is notorious for causing abscesses in patients without any previous hepatobiliary disease and is a cause of liver abscesses. We report the case of a 70-year-old man with a past medical history of hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia who presented with a cough and fever lasting two weeks. The findings from his physical examination were unremarkable, but his laboratory investigations were significant for elevated inflammatory markers. A computed tomography scan of his abdomen revealed a complex septated cyst in the right lobe of his liver, and his blood culture was positive for K. pneumoniae. He responded well to drainage and intravenous and oral antibiotics. His abscess resolved fully. Cases of K. pneumoniae in the United States are rare, and studies are necessary to explore its epidemiology. Atypical symptoms make diagnosis a challenge, and physicians are urged to retain high levels of suspicion to diagnose and treat such cases early.