Non-viral infections of the liver.

The function and anatomy of the liver renders this organ peculiarly susceptible to bacterial and parasitic infections; fungal infections are increasingly recognised in the immunocompromised. As biochemical abnormalities of liver function can be non-specific, a high index of suspicion of liver or biliary infection is required. A need for prompt investigation is emphasised by the potentially rapid progression and poor prognosis of some bacterial and fungal infections, and the public health implications of parasitic diseases. This review encompasses the major infections of the liver and biliary tree other than viral hepatitis and includes aspects of pathogenicity, epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis and management.