Histological changes during healing of experimental amebic liver abscess treated with metronidazole.

Morphological changes during the healing of amebic liver abscess (ALA) in hamsters treated with metronidazole were studied. Animals with ALA of 4 days of evolution were treated orally with metronidazole (5 mg/100 g for 10 days). Liver samples were studied at different times from the beginning of treatment up to 22 days. The resolution of ALA was accompanied by chronic inflammatory reaction, increased number of foamy macrophages and gradual disappearance of the granulomas. Neoformed hepatocytes and blood vessels, and proliferation of biliary ducts were also observed. Foamy macrophages play an important role in the adequate healing of ALA.