Imaging Infectious Disease of the Abdomen (Including COVID-19)

Abstract Abdominal infections can prolong hospital stays and lead to high morbidity and mortality. In patients with pre-existing critical illness or other conditions such as cancer and immunosuppression, early diagnosis of abdominal infections can be challenging and are important considerations to prevent life-threatening sepsis and complications. The constellation of predisposing host factors, infectious agents, and site of involvement can lead to a variety of clinical and imaging manifestations. Based on organ system involvement, diverse imaging techniques can be utilized ranging from plain films to cross-sectional and advanced imaging modalities. The purpose of this chapter is to discuss uncommon and common etiologies and imaging manifestations of infections in the abdomen and pelvis with emphasis on the radiological features considering the relevant clinical background and risk factors.