Multidrug-resistant tubercular liver abscess in β-thalassemia.

BACKGROUND: Liver abscesses in thalassemics are predominantly pyogenic. CASE CHARACTERISTICS: 12-year-old thalassemic boy with abdominal pain and high grade fever for 15 days. OBSERVATION: CT abdomen revealed multiple liver abscesses. Pus culture and sensitivity showed multidrug-resistant mycobacteria. Patient was started on second line anti-tubercular drugs. OUTCOME: He responded well with symptomatic improvement and is doing well after 6 months of follow-up. MESSAGE: Liver abscess in patients with thalassemia rarely can be tubercular.