Computed tomography in the evaluation of abdominal abscesses.

Review of experience using computed tomography in 50 patients with a suspected diagnosis of abscess indicated it to be accurate and reliable. Most abscesses were sharply demarcated masses. After intravenous injection of contrast medium, the rim was enhanced in about 35 percent of the patients. In six patients the inflammatory mass had ill-defined borders. It is concluded that when the computed tomographic findings are correlated with clinical history, the correct diagnosis can almost always be reached. If surgery is not contemplated, computed tomography or ultrasound-guided needle aspiration should be performed to confirm the diagnosis.