Bile Duct Infection

Bile duct infection, also known as cholangitis, is an infection of the bile ducts that carry bile from the liver to the small intestine. Bile ducts are small tubes that are responsible for the transportation and digestion of food. When these ducts become infected, the flow of bile is blocked and can cause severe health problems. The most common cause of bile duct infection is bacterial infection. Bacteria can enter the bile ducts through the digestive system, through the bloodstream, or through an open surgical wound. Other causes include obstruction of the bile ducts, due to gallstones or tumors, as well as medical procedures such as ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) or liver transplantation. The symptoms of bile duct infection vary depending on the severity of the infection. Common symptoms include fever, abdominal pain, jaundice, nausea, vomiting, and dark urine. Other symptoms may include chills, joint pain, fatigue, and clay-colored stools. Diagnosis of bile duct infection is usually done through blood tests, imaging tests, and endoscopic procedures. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and, in some cases, surgery.