Acute Cholangitis

Acute cholangitis is acute bacterial infection of bile ducts, usually from obstruction (stones/stricture/tumor), presenting with fever, jaundice, and RUQ pain (Charcot triad). Treatment: IV fluids/electrolytes; analgesics; broad-spectrum antibiotics; biliary drainage (ERCP/PTCD) if obstruction/severe; treat underlying cause (stone extraction/stent/tumor); monitor for progression to suppurative cholangitis/sepsis; follow-up imaging (MRCP/ERCP).

Common Symptoms

Fever; jaundice; RUQ pain; by obstruction/infection

Causes and Pathogenesis

Obstruction + bacterial ascent causes acute biliary infection.

Treatment

Fluids/analgesics/antibiotics; drainage if obstruction; treat source

Preventive Measures

Early biliary drainage; treat stones/strictures.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Hepatobiliary-surgery/Gastroenterology/Emergency department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.