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What is Cholangitis?
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Cholangitis is an infection of the common bile duct, the tube that carries bile from the liver to the gallbladder and intestines. Bile is a chemical that helps digest food.
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How is it caused?
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Cholangitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection, which can occur when the duct is blocked by things such as a gallstone or tumor. The infection causing this condition may also spread to the liver.
Risk factors include a previous history of gallstones, biliary diseases such as sclerosing cholangitis, HIV, and, rarely, travel to countries where a worm or fluke infection can be contracted.
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What are its symptoms?
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Recurrent jaundice
Abdominal pain
Chills
Fever
Clay-colored stools
Dark urine
Nausea and vomiting
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How is it diagnosed?
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The condition can be diagnosed using the following tests:-
- Abdominal ultrasound
- Liver function tests
- Blood culture
- WBC
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How can it be treated?
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Antibiotics can cure infection. Usually, blockage bile ducts may be drained by ERCP or by PTBD.
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How can it be prevented?
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Treatment of gallstones, tumors, and infestations of parasites may reduce the risk for some people. A metal or plastic stents within the bile system may be needed to prevent recurrence.
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