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Acute Cholangitis: What You Need to Know About This Dangerous Bile Duct Infection
Published: Jun 08, 2024
Acute cholangitis is a serious infection of the bile ducts that can quickly become life-threatening if not treated promptly. Understanding the signs and symptoms is crucial for early detection and treatment.
What Causes Acute Cholangitis?
Acute cholangitis occurs when bacteria infect the bile ducts, usually due to a blockage. Common causes include gallstones, tumors, or narrowing of the bile ducts. Think of it like a clogged pipe getting infected - the blockage allows bacteria to grow and spread in the bile duct system.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
The classic symptoms of acute cholangitis are fever, abdominal pain, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes). This trio of symptoms is known as Charcot's triad. However, not everyone experiences all three. Other signs can include chills, nausea, vomiting, and confusion in severe cases. If you have persistent fever and abdominal pain, especially with yellowing skin, seek medical attention immediately.
Diagnosis and Testing
Doctors diagnose acute cholangitis through a combination of symptoms, blood tests, and imaging. Blood tests typically show signs of infection and liver problems. Ultrasound or CT scans can reveal blockages in the bile ducts. In some cases, more specialized tests like MRCP or ERCP may be needed to get a detailed view of the bile duct system.
Treatment Approaches
Treatment for acute cholangitis typically involves two main steps: antibiotics to fight the infection and procedures to drain the blocked bile ducts. Antibiotics are started immediately, even before confirming the exact type of bacteria. Drainage procedures, usually done via endoscopy (ERCP), help remove the blockage and allow infected bile to flow out. In severe cases, patients may need intensive care and emergency drainage procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
It can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Treating underlying conditions like gallstones can help prevent it.
Most patients improve within a few days of starting treatment.
Yes, addressing the underlying cause is important to prevent recurrence.
No, many cases can be treated with antibiotics and endoscopic procedures.
Early Detection is Key
Recognizing the signs of acute cholangitis and seeking prompt medical care can make a crucial difference in outcomes.
References
- Kimura Y, et al. J Hepatobiliary Pancreat Surg 2007; 14:15.
- Mosler P. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 2011; 13:166.
- Kiriyama S, et al. J Hepatobiliary Pancreat Sci 2018; 25:17.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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