cholangitis
Information, Symptoms, Treatments and Resources
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.
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.
- Recurrent jaundice
- Abdominal pain
- In the right upper quadrant or middle of the upper abdomen
- May be recurrent
- Sharp or cramping or dull
- May radiate to the back or below the right shoulder blade
- Chills
- Fever
- Clay-colored stools (may occur)
- Dark urine (may occur)
- Nausea and vomiting
Tests may include:
- ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography)
- Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram (PTCA)
- Abdominal ultrasound
- MRCP (magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography)
Blood tests may include:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of cholangitis.
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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