Semin intervent Radiol 2011; 28(4): 450-456
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1296088
MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY CASE

© Thieme Medical Publishers

Liver Abscess Following Transarterial Chemoembolization

Danny Cheng1
  • 1University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
03 January 2012 (online)

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) alone or in combination with thermoablation is commonly used in treating primary and secondary liver malignancies.[1] [2] It has proven to be safe and effective in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), neuroendocrine tumors, ocular melanoma, cholangiocarcinoma, and sarcoma. Known complications from hepatic embolization include the self-limiting postembolization syndrome (i.e., pain, nausea, vomiting, fever), liver infarction, liver failure, liver abscess, biloma formation, gastrointestinal bleeding, tumor rupture, septicemia, and pulmonary embolism. Approximately 5% of patients will have serious adverse events after chemoembolization, with the most common being liver abscess or liver infarction.[1] This case reviews the incidence, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment of liver abscess following chemoembolization as well as prophylactic measures to prevent its occurrence.

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Danny ChengM.D. 

University of Chicago Medical Center

5840 S. Maryland Ave., MC 2026 Chicago, IL 60637

Email: danny.cheng@uchospitals.edu