Shameela Ahmed

Abstract

An abscess is a localised collection of necrotic tissue, white cells and bacteria, collectively forming pus. Intra-abdominal abscesses can occur viscerally (e.g. hepatic abscess), retroperitoneally (e.g. psoas abscess) or intraperitoneally (e.g. subphrenic abscess).1, 2 Clinical presentation is variable and largely depends on the site of abscess. Fever and abdominal pain are the classic symptoms although in older people presentation can be non-specific. Prompt diagnosis and early intervention are vital for good outcomes.3 We present two cases of older women whose presentation with atypical symptoms resulted in a delay in diagnosis.