Cholangitis

Inflammation of the common bile duct (see biliary system). There are 2 types: acute ascending cholangitis and sclerosing cholangitis. Acute ascending cholangitis is usually due to bacterial infection of the duct and its bile, generally as a result of blockage of the duct by, for example, a gallstone (see bile duct obstruction). The infection spreads up the duct and may affect the liver. The main symptoms are recurrent bouts of jaundice, abdominal pain, chills, and fever. Mild attacks are treated with antibiotics and a high intake of fluids. In severe, life-threatening attacks, which may be accompanied by septicaemia and kidney failure, the infected material may be drained from the bile duct by surgery or endoscopy. Sclerosing cholangitis is a rare condition in which all the bile ducts within and outside the liver become narrowed. The condition causes cholestasis, chronic jaundice, and itching of the skin. The liver is progressively damaged. Colestyramine may relieve itching. The only other treatment available is a liver transplant.