Ascaris liver abscess in children

Liver abscess in childhood is a very challenging subject both for patients and doctors. In India, pyogenic liver abscesses have been found mostly in children, especially in rural areas. Liver abscess due to wandering ascarids is a common complication in children in Kashmir, although it is rare outside. The study was carried over a period of 10 years at Sheri-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences Srinagar India. Ten cases of liver abscesses due to wandering ascarids in children were encountered. The children were aged 2 years to 13 years. 70% of the children were from rural areas. All ten patients presented with fever, while three patients presented with peritonitis. Ultrasonography was the main tool of diagnosis. All ten patients were managed by open surgical drainage. We conclude that Ascaris infestation should always be kept in mind while dealing with liver abscess in children.