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What is Cholangitis?
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?
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. -
What are its symptoms?
- Recurrent jaundice
- Abdominal pain
- Chills
- Fever
- Clay-colored stools
- Dark urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Recurrent jaundice
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How is it diagnosed?
The condition can be diagnosed using the following tests:-
- Abdominal ultrasound
- Liver function tests
- Blood culture
- WBC
- Abdominal ultrasound
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How can it be treated?
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?
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.
