Acute infection due to partial or complete obstruction of the biliary tree, most commonly by gallstones migrating into the common bile duct (CBD); also by endoscopic retrograde chola...
Presentation often nonspecific. Classic findings:
Clinical triad of fever, jaundice, and RUQ pain (Charcot triad)
Reynolds pentad of fever, jaundice, RUQ pain, mental status changes, an...
Monitor airway, breathing, hydration, circulation, and resuscitate as needed; IV crystalloid
NPO; nasogastric tube for vomiting
Medical treatment is effective in 80% for symptom control. Opera...
Charcot triad (fever, jaundice, and RUQ pain) is seen in <25% of cases and has low sensitivity but high specificity for ascending cholangitis.
An isolated elevation of alkaline phosp...
Sign up for a 10-day FREE Trial now and receive full access to all content.