What's the difference between a cyst and abcess on the liver?

Infection: Liver cysts are very common and the vast majority cause no problems. Liver abscesses cause fever and pain and can be very serious. They require antibiotics and sometimes require drainage.

Differences: A cyst is an abnormal sac of fluid. Most of the time we don't know what causes them(some are genetic), rarely some are parasite related. An abscess is collection of white blood cells(pus) that is infectious in nature. Most liver cysts can be left alone and never require drainage or surgical removal. Abscesses always require treatment which usually entails antibiotics and drainage.