A total of 78 patients were subjected to computed tomography (CT) over a period of 18 months. CT proved extremely accurate in the diagnosis of intraabdominal abscesses and in estimating the extent of spread. The series included many examples of amoebic and hydatid abscesses with unusual presentations and appearances. The commonest appearance of abscesses on CT was a low-density mass with peripheral rims after the administration of intravenous contrast media, followed by gas-containing low-density lesions which were regarded as showing characteristic features of abscess formation. Pitfalls in the CT appearance of abdominal abscesses were many and correlation with the clinical presentation was essential for diagnosis. The greatest value of CT lay in the rapidity of diagnosis.