Causes and risk factors
A retroperitoneal abscess is a result of bacterial infection. Causative organisms are E. coli, Bacteroides, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus, and Enterobacter. Causes of retroperitoneal abscess include inflammation of abdomen, infection of appendix, and infection of pancreas. Surgery or trauma can lead to the condition.
Clinical presentation
Retroperitoneal abscess can be located at different regions – perinephric, upper retroperitoneum, pelvic, combined upper retroperitoneum and pelvic, or localized musculoskeletal. Patient complains of generalized body discomfort, pain in the lower back, fever with chills, or malaise. There is loss of appetite, weight loss. Pain in abdomen, altered bowel habits, nausea, or vomiting may be present.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Routine hemogram, blood culture, and urinalysis are done. Investigations include plain abdominal x-ray, USG abdomen, and CT scan of abdomen.
Treatment
Treatment involves intravenous antibiotic therapy to combat the infection. Surgery includes transperitoneal drainage of abscess. Symptomatic relief is obtained with analgesic, antipyretic meidcation.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating retroperitoneal abscess. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly, the Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates is also found to be effective in treating retroperitoneal abscess.
