Cholangitis: Warning Signs, Causes and Available Treatments
PACE Hospitals offers advanced cholangitis treatment in Hyderabad, India, providing comprehensive care for all types of cholangitis, including Acute Cholangitis, Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis, Primary Biliary Cholangitis, and Recurrent Pyogenic Cholangitis. Our specialists provide accurate diagnosis using liver function tests, cholangitis blood tests, ultrasound, MRCP, CT scan, ERCP, and advanced radiology evaluation, followed by personalized treatment plans.
From mild bile duct infections to severe cholangitis emergencies, we offer rapid medical care, IV antibiotics, ERCP, biliary drainage, ICU support, and advanced hepatobiliary care with high precision and success rates.
Cholangitis is a serious infection or inflammation of the bile ducts, the tubes that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine. It usually occurs when the bile ducts become blocked, allowing bacteria to multiply and cause an infection. Cholangitis requires prompt medical attention because, if left untreated, it can lead to life-threatening complications such as sepsis, liver abscess, or liver failure.
What Causes Cholangitis?
The most common causes of cholangitis include:
Gallstones blocking the bile ducts
Benign bile duct strictures (narrowing)
Bile duct tumors or cancers
Pancreatic diseases causing bile duct compression
Previous bile duct surgery or stent blockage
Parasitic infections (rare)
Congenital abnormalities of the bile ducts
When bile cannot flow normally, bacteria can grow rapidly within the blocked ducts, leading to infection.
Common Symptoms of Cholangitis
Symptoms often appear suddenly and may include:
Fever with chills
Severe pain in the upper right abdomen
Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
Nausea and vomiting
Dark-colored urine
Pale stools
Loss of appetite
General weakness and fatigue
In severe cases, patients may also develop confusion, low blood pressure, and signs of septic shock, requiring emergency treatment.
How Is Cholangitis Diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose cholangitis using a combination of:
Medical history and physical examination
Blood tests to detect infection and liver function abnormalities
Ultrasound abdomen
CT scan
MRI with MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography)
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), which can diagnose and treat bile duct blockage simultaneously
Treatment for Cholangitis
Treatment depends on the severity and underlying cause but usually includes:
Intravenous antibiotics to control infection
IV fluids and supportive care
Pain management
ERCP to remove bile duct stones, relieve obstruction, or place a stent
Percutaneous drainage when ERCP is not possible
Surgery in selected patients when other treatments are ineffective or if structural abnormalities require correction
Most patients improve significantly once the bile duct obstruction is relieved and the infection is treated promptly.
Can Cholangitis Be Prevented?
While not all cases can be prevented, the risk may be reduced by:
Early treatment of gallstones
Regular follow-up for patients with bile duct strictures or stents
Timely management of pancreatic and liver disorders
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle to reduce gallstone risk
Seeking immediate medical care for jaundice, fever, or severe abdominal pain
Why Choose PACE Hospitals for Cholangitis Treatment?
PACE Hospitals provides comprehensive care for patients with cholangitis through a multidisciplinary team of Best gastroenterologists in Hyderabad, hepatologists, GI surgeons, and interventional endoscopists.
Key advantages include:
Advanced diagnostic facilities, including MRCP and ERCP
24/7 emergency care for acute biliary infections
Expertise in minimally invasive endoscopic procedures
Comprehensive intensive care support for severe infections
Personalized treatment plans with long-term follow-up
Conclusion
Cholangitis is a medical emergency that should never be ignored. Early diagnosis, prompt antibiotic therapy, and timely relief of bile duct obstruction can prevent serious complications and significantly improve recovery. If you experience fever, jaundice, and severe abdominal pain, seek immediate evaluation by a gastroenterologist or hepatobiliary specialist. PACE Hospitals - Private Hospital in Hyderabad, Hitec city offers advanced diagnosis and comprehensive treatment for cholangitis, ensuring safe and effective patient care.