Cholangitis (patient information)

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Assistant Editor-in-Chief: Meagan E. Doherty

Overview

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 made by the liver that helps digest food.

What are the symptoms of Cholangitis?

The following symptoms may occur:

  • In the right upper side or middle of the upper abdomen
  • May come and go
  • Pain is sharp, crampy, or dull
  • Pain may move the back or below the right shoulder blade

What are the causes of Cholangitis?

Cholangitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection, which can occur when the duct is blocked by something, such as a gallstone or tumor. The infection causing this condition may also spread to the liver.

Who is at risk for Cholangitis?

Risk factors include:

How to know you have Cholangitis?

Tests for Cholangitis may include:

  • Abdominal ultrasound
  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): ERCP uses an endoscope—a long, flexible, lighted tube—that goes down the mouth, beyond the stomach, and into the duodenum to reach an area in the digestive tract where dye can be injected into the bile ducts. X rays are taken when the dye is injected. ERCP also can be used to take a tissue sample or to treat blocked ducts.
  • Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP): MRCP uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to obtain pictures of the bile ducts. MRI machines use radio waves and magnets to scan internal organs and tissues. MRCP does not involve using x rays or inserting instruments into the body. This safe and painless test is increasingly used for diagnosis.
  • Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram (PTCA): This procedure involves inserting a needle through the skin and placing a thin tube into a duct in the liver. Dye is injected through the tube and x rays are taken.

The following blood tests may be done to test for cholangitis:

When to seek urgent medical care

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of cholangitis.

Treatment options

Quick diagnosis and treatment are very important.

Antibiotics to cure infection are tried first for most patients. ERCP or other surgical procedures are done when the patient is stable.

Patients who are very ill or are quickly getting worse may need surgery right away.

Diseases with similar symptoms

Where to find medical care for Cholangitis

Directions to Hospitals Treating Cholangitis

Prevention 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.

What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)

The outcome is usually good with treatment, but poor without it.

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