In this article, imaging is discussed and how it is used in some infectious intra-abdominal diseases, as well as the therapeutic role of diagnostic radiology using percutaneous drainage. Various imaging modalities have been used to evaluate acute pancreatitis and its associated sequelae, such as pancreatic necrosis, fluid collections, pseudocyst and abscesses. Ultrasound is an excellent and inexpensive way to follow the course of larger pseudocysts. Prior to removal, catheters are capped and studied with CT and fluoroscopy to detect evidence of fluid reaccumulation or fistulous communication to the pancreatic duct. The different features of these two groups, warrants separate consideration.
Pyogenic abscesses can be solitary, multiple, and multilocular.
When a single abscess is present, it is usually located in the right lobe. Figure 2a Hepatic abscess manifested by low density lesion in the liver. Low density mass with areas of increase attenuation within the mass. Thus, prompt therapeutic intervention is warranted. Nearly all of these abscesses are cured with percutaneous drainage.