Bile duct infection or inflammation (cholangitis)

Overview

Gallstones are the most common cause.

Treatment includes antibiotics and clearing the blockage with a scope.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Fever with yellow skin
• Upper right belly pain
• Confusion
• Upper right belly pain (under the right ribs)
• Yellow skin or eyes

Less common

• Itching

Look up a symptom: Fever · Yellow skin or eyes

When to get medical care

Causes

Blocked bile duct.

Does it spread or run in families?

• The illness itself usually isn't passed to others, but some germs that cause it can spread.
• Washing hands often helps.

Who is more likely to get it

• Gallstones

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Ultrasound:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

• Go to the ER
• Drink fluids

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Treat gallstones

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor) or a surgeon.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Older adults: Higher risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Fast treatment works well.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What follow-up care do I need?
• How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Bile duct infection or inflammation (cholangitis)