All are true about amoebic liver abscess except?
**Question:** All are true about amoebic liver abscess except?
A. Amebic liver abscess is typically caused by the ingestion of contaminated food or water.
B. Amebic liver abscess can be cured with antibiotics.
C. Amebic liver abscess is always associated with amebiasis.
D. Amebic liver abscess has a high mortality rate.
**Correct Answer:** B. Amebic liver abscess can be cured with antibiotics.
**Core Concept:**
Amoebic liver abscess is a condition caused by the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica, leading to an inflammatory response and the formation of an abscess in the liver. The correct answer is false because antibiotics are not the primary treatment for amoebic liver abscess.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
Amebic liver abscess is typically caused by ingesting contaminated food or water, which harbors the Entamoeba histolytica parasite. The abscess is a result of the amoeba's ability to invade tissues and release toxins, leading to inflammation. The treatment for amoebic liver abscess involves:
1. **Hospitalization:** Patients are admitted to the hospital for close monitoring and management of complications.
2. **Parasiticidal drugs:** Antiprotozoal medications, such as metronidazole (Flagyl), are administered to kill the Entamoeba histolytica.
3. **Puncture and drainage:** In some cases, a liver abscess may be drained to relieve pressure and allow medication to reach the affected area more effectively.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Amebic liver abscess can be caused by consuming contaminated food or water, but the abscess itself is not due to the ingestion of the parasite.
C. Amebic liver abscess is often associated with amebiasis, but not always. Amebic liver abscess can also occur in people without a history of intestinal amebiasis.
D. The mortality rate due to amoebic liver abscess has decreased significantly due to early diagnosis and effective treatment with antiparasitic drugs. However, the mortality rate can still be as high as 10% to 20% if left untreated.
**Clinical Pearls:**
Amoebiasis is primarily transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food and water, often in developing countries due to poor sanitation and hygiene. It is essential to suspect amoebic liver abscess in patients presenting with symptoms like fever, right upper quadrant pain, and hepatomegaly, particularly in endemic areas.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
Metronidazole, also known as Flagyl, is an antiprotozoal drug that acts against Entamoeba histolytica. The abscess can be drained to relieve pressure and allow medication to reach the affected area more effectively.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Ingestion of Entamoeba hist