The Persistent Approach to Diagnose Infectious Hepatic Cysts in a Patient With Recurrent Fever: A Case Report

Diagnosing infectious hepatic cysts (IHCs) can be challenging. Moreover, patients with IHCs may present with various symptoms. Diagnosis of IHCs can be even more difficult in patients with multiple liver cysts. For appropriate diagnosis, the detection of infectious sections in the liver is essential. However, diagnosing and determining definite treatments for patients with IHCs can be particularly challenging when they have polycystic liver disease. We present a case of a 70-year-old man who visited a rural community hospital with a primary complaint of recurrent fever and pain in the right upper quadrant. Based on his clinical history, physical examination findings, and imaging findings after three admissions, he was diagnosed with IHCs. This case demonstrates the challenges in diagnosing IHCs in patients with multiple hepatic cysts and highlights the necessity of a careful follow-up of clinical histories and findings of definitive imaging tests in the diagnosis of IHCs in patients with recurrent fever. To diagnose IHCs effectively, a comprehensive approach including history taking, physical examination, and diagnostic testing, is essential. IHCs should be considered by physicians when patients present with recurrent fever. To avoid missing IHCs, physicians in outpatient departments should continuously follow up on patients’ IHC-related symptoms such as fever and right upper quadrant pain.