Amoebic liver abscess is the most common extra-intestinal manifestation of Entamoeba histolytica infection. Amoebic abscess is most often located in the right lobe of the liver. There is a striking male preponderance for ALA, the reason for which is unclear. Heavy alcohol consumption is a common finding in patients with ALA, perhaps because alcohol can make the liver more susceptible to infection by amoebae. The common complications encountered are rupture into the pleura, pericardium and peritoneum.
About 10% of the population worldwide are infected with E. histolytica. Among the ways persons can become infected are ingestion of cysts from contaminated food or water and from person-to-person contact. The most susceptible individuals are those of advanced age; those who are malnourished, pregnant, alcoholic, immunosuppressed, or institutionalized; those who have a malignant disease; and those who travel to tropical regions.