Ascending cholangitis (patient information)
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor-In-Chief: Mohammed A. Sbeih, M.D.[2] Phone:617-849-2629;
Overview
Cholangitis is an infection of the common bile duct, the tube that carries bile from the liver to the gallbladder and intestines. Bile is a liquid made by the liver that helps digest food.
What causes ascending cholangitis?
Cholangitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection, which can occur when the duct is blocked by something, such as a gallstone or tumor. The infection causing this condition may also spread to the liver. Risk factors include a previous history of gallstones, sclerosing cholangitis, HIV, narrowing of the common bile duct, and, rarely, travel to countries where you might catch a worm or parasite infection.
what are the symptoms of ascending cholangitis?
The following symptoms may occur:
- Abdominal pain which is in the right upper side or middle of the upper abdomen and may come and go. Pain is sharp, crampy, or dull and may move to the back or below the right shoulder blade.
- Chills
- Fever
- Clay-colored stools
- Dark urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Yellowing of the skin (jaundice) -- may come and go
Who is at risk for ascending cholangitis?
How to know you have ascending cholangitis?
When to seek urgent medical care?
Treatment options
Diseases with similar symptoms
Where to find medical care for ascending cholangitis?
Directions to Hospitals Treating ascending cholangitis