Cholangiitis

Cholangiitis is a medical term referring to inflammation of the bile ducts. These ducts are responsible for carrying bile from the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine, where it aids in digestion. When these ducts become inflamed, bile flow can be obstructed, leading to a buildup of bile and potentially serious complications.

The most common cause of cholangiitis is bacterial infection. This infection often arises when bile flow is already compromised, for instance, due to gallstones blocking the common bile duct or other obstructions like tumors. The stagnant bile can then become a breeding ground for bacteria, which can travel up from the intestines into the bile ducts. Symptoms can include fever, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, and chills.

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests to check for signs of infection and liver function, and imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI of the abdomen. Treatment aims to address the underlying cause of the bile duct obstruction and clear the infection. This often includes antibiotics to combat the bacteria and procedures to relieve the obstruction, such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to remove stones or place stents. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent the progression of the infection and potential complications like sepsis.