biliaryfecal

Biliaryfecal is not a standard medical term in formal nomenclature. In some discussions, it is used informally to describe interactions between the biliary system and fecal matter, most often through biliary-enteric fistulas—abnormal connections between the biliary tree and the intestinal tract. Because the term is not widely used in guidelines or textbooks, precise definitions usually rely on more specific terminology such as biliary-enteric fistula or pneumobilia.

Biliary-enteric fistulas arise when chronic inflammation from gallstone disease or cholecystitis erodes through the gallbladder wall into adjacent bowel, commonly the duodenum or colon. Less common contributing conditions include Crohn’s disease, peptic ulcer disease, or prior abdominal surgery. A related scenario is gallstone erosion with the stone passing into the intestine, which can lead to gallstone ileus if a large stone causes bowel obstruction.

Clinical features can vary. Patients may experience biliary symptoms such as episodic right upper quadrant pain or jaundice, along with gastrointestinal changes due to altered bile flow. Pneumobilia, or air within the biliary tree, can be detected on imaging and supports fistula formation. Diagnostic evaluation typically includes ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), and sometimes endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to define anatomy and guide treatment.

Management focuses on treating the underlying biliary disease and closing the fistula when feasible. Many cases require cholecystectomy with fistula repair; endoscopic or percutaneous approaches may be used for drainage, stone management, or decompression in select patients. Prognosis depends on the underlying condition, the presence of complications such as infection or bowel obstruction, and the patient’s overall health.

See also biliary-enteric fistula, pneumobilia, gallstone ileus.