Retroperitoneal Abscesses: Origin, Ethiology and Percutaneous Treatment

Abstract

Retroperitoneal abscess is a rare clinical condition that can cause mortality if not properly treated. In our study, we aimed to report the data of retroperitoneal abscess cases which performed percutaneous drainage in the first step treatment. A retrospective study was made of 81 patients with retroperitoneal abscesses treated at our hospital from June 2010 to December 2017 for the purpose of analyzing the diagnosis and treatment of these rare infections. In each case, we analyzed patient characteristics, abscess location and origin, predisposing factors, c linical presentation, microbiology, radiographic findings, treatment, and outcome. 81 cases were identified as 11 (14%) primary and 70 (86%) as secondary. The majority (63%) of these abscesses were originated from Urinary System, while others were found to be originated from psoas, vertebral and Gastrointestinal system (GIS). Urolithiasis, previous surgery, and other Urinary system anomalies were determined to be the most common predisposing factors. Escherichia coli (E. coli) was the most commonly seen pathogen in abscess culture. In all patients, percutaneous drainage catheter was successfully placed in the abscess lodge. No serious complications occurred in patients during and after the procedure. 78/81 (96%) clinical success was achieved. In 12 months fo llow-ups, recurrence was seen in only 5 patients. Percutaneous abscess drainage should be preferred in the treatment of retroperitoneal abscesses as easy to perform, cost effective, low complication risk and high success rate. © 2018, Yuzuncu Yil Universitesi Tip Fakultesi. All rights reserved.