Cholangitis history and symptoms
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Farwa Haideri [2]
Cholangitis Microchapters |
Diagnosis |
---|
Treatment |
Case Studies |
Cholangitis history and symptoms On the Web |
American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Cholangitis history and symptoms |
Risk calculators and risk factors for Cholangitis history and symptoms |
Overview
History
Obtaining the history is the most important aspect of making a diagnosis of cholangitis. It provides insight into cause, precipitating factors and associated comorbid conditions. Complete history will help determine the correct therapy and helps in determining the prognosis. The patient's medical history is helpful. Specific areas of focus when obtaining the history, are outlined below:[1]
- Gallstones and common bile duct stones
- Recent cholecystectomy
- Endoscopic manipulation or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
- History of HIV or AIDS
- AIDS-related cholangitis is characterized by extrahepatic biliary edema, ulceration, and obstruction.
Symtoms
Associated symptoms can provide clues as to the cause of cholangitis.[1][2]
- Acholic or hypocholic stools
- Confusion
- Malaise
- Nausea and vomiting
- Occult sepsis
- Pain on the upper right side or upper middle part of the abdomen.
- It may be felt in the back or below the right shoulder blade.
- The pain may come and go and feel sharp, cramp-like, or dull.
- Paralytic ileus
- Pruritus