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StatPearls, LLC

  • Appendicitis
  • Diverticulitis
  • Drainage
  • Shoulder Pain
  • Subphrenic Abscess

Subphrenic Abscess

Subphrenic abscesses represent localized collections of purulent material that develop in the potential space between the diaphragm and the abdominal viscera, most commonly the liver, spleen, or transverse colon. These infections typically arise as postoperative complications following abdominal surgery but may also result from trauma, perforated viscus, or inflammatory conditions such as appendicitis or diverticulitis. Pathophysiology involves contamination of the peritoneal cavity with gastrointestinal flora, followed by localization of infection beneath the diaphragm. Clinical presentation is often insidious, with nonspecific symptoms including fever, malaise, abdominal or referred shoulder pain, and respiratory complaints, contributing to delayed diagnosis and increased morbidity. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography remains the diagnostic modality of choice, enabling accurate localization and characterization of abscesses. Management focuses on timely source control through image-guided percutaneous drainage or surgical intervention, combined with targeted antimicrobial therapy to reduce the risk of sepsis and mortality. This educational activity equips participants with a comprehensive understanding of the evaluation and management of subphrenic abscesses in contemporary clinical practice. Learners gain proficiency in recognizing risk factors, interpreting diagnostic imaging findings, and selecting appropriate drainage strategies based on abscess anatomy and patient stability. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based antimicrobial selection and escalation of care when percutaneous management fails. Collaboration within an interprofessional healthcare team enhances patient outcomes by integrating the expertise of clinicians, surgeons, radiologists, infectious disease specialists, nurses, and pharmacists. Coordinated communication supports prompt diagnosis, efficient source control, optimized antimicrobial therapy, and vigilant monitoring for complications…

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.

Credit types

IPCE CreditsUp to 1.5 creditsAAPA Category 1 Credit™Up to 1.5 creditsAMA PRA Category 1 Credit™Up to 1.5 creditsNursingUp to 1.5 creditsPharmacyUp to 1.5 credits

MOC types

ABS — Accredited CMEUp to 1.5 pointsABPATH — Lifelong LearningUp to 1.5 pointsABA — Lifelong LearningUp to 1.5 pointsABTS — Accredited CMEUp to 1.5 pointsABIM — Medical KnowledgeUp to 1.5 pointsABS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 pointsABP — Lifelong Learning and Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 pointsABTS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 points

FDA REMS

No

Qualifies for MIPS

No

Target Specialties

Cross-Specialty

Relevant across 10 specialties.

Pricing

Fee varies

This provider typically $49–98

See fees on statpearls.com

Listed by the provider

  • Article / monograph / reference
  • Credit · Up to 1.5 credits
  • MOC · Up to 1.5 points
  • Fee varies · this provider typically $49–98
  • Released
    Sep 1, 2026
  • Last day to claim credit
    Sep 1, 2029 3 years left

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