Sclerosing Cholangitis

  I have just found out that there is a slight possibily that a
  member of my family could have this disease.  They just had
  gallstones removed and gall bladder removed and we were
  told that the tube that goes to the liver and gall bladder is
  blocked.  The doctor has put a 'T' tube in for about 3 months
  to drain any poison that might be blocking this tube. We were told
  they could have this disease if this does not remove the
  problem.  Is this true and how can we know for sure?
  The doctor has made it clear that he is hoping that the poison
  from the gallstones is what the problem is but he would not
  leave out the possibily of this disease.  The patient has
  jaundice but is recoving fast after the surgery to remove the
  gall bladder.  Is there any new info on this disease?
  Thanks
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Dear betty,
Sclerosing cholangitis is a condition of unknown etiology that presents with recurrent attacks of jaundice, fever and right sided pain in the region of the liver.  Investigations reveal multiple narrowings or strictures of the bile duct.  Although the disease is of unknown cause it is often seen in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease).
Other conditions may cause cholangitis, which is the term that refers to the symptoms described above.  Gallstones in the bile duct, pancreatitis  and pancreratic cancer can cause cholangitis due to infection of the bile.  To diagnose sclerosing cholangitis, it is necessary to demonstrate the multiple bile duct strictures by cholangiogram ( an X-ray that can be done during the gall bladder surgery or via the T-tube) or by ERCP, an endoscopic study.  It should be emphasized, however, that sometimes common bile duct stones can cause multiple bile duct strictures.
This information is presented for educational purposes only.  always consult your personal physician for specific medical questions.
If you want, we would be happy to see you in the Division of Gastroenterology at Henry Ford Hospital and perform the appropriate investigations after we have had the chance to meet you and to review your history in greater detail. You can arrange an appointment with Dr. Fogel, one of our experts in the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal disease by calling the Henry Ford Physician Referral Line at [phone].