Amebic liver abscess

This code represents an infection of the liver caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica, resulting in the formation of one or more abscesses. It is a severe manifestation of amebiasis, often presenting with fever, right upper quadrant pain, and hepatomegaly.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of amebic liver abscess, typically confirmed by imaging (e.g., ultrasound, CT) showing a liver lesion consistent with an abscess, often in conjunction with serological tests for Entamoeba histolytica. This code is appropriate for both initial diagnosis and subsequent encounters related to the management of the abscess.

• Ensure documentation specifies "amebic" to differentiate from other types of liver abscesses (e.g., pyogenic).
• Do not use for intestinal amebiasis without evidence of liver involvement.
• Consider sequencing with codes for underlying amebiasis if the primary reason for the encounter is the systemic infection and the abscess is a complication.