Liver abscesses in patients with beta thalassaemia major: a case series and mini-review of the literature

Abstract

Treatment of liver abscesses in patients with transfusion-dependent thalassaemia remains a challenging task due to the interplay of multiple factors, including difficult venous access and the co-existence of other organ dysfunction, such as diabetes mellitus. We report case histories of three transfusion-dependent thalassaemia patients with liver abscesses, two of whom had repeated episodes of the disease. We recommend a prolonged regimen of intravenous and oral antibiotics to eliminate the infection, along with more vigilant and regular follow-up using imaging for early detection of recurrence. Finally, we highlight the importance of maintaining continuous venous access - another often overlooked challenge among thalassaemia patients.