Bile Duct Disorders
Bile Duct Disorders – Condition Overview
Bile duct disorders are conditions that affect the ducts carrying bile from the liver to the small intestine. Bile is essential for digestion, particularly for breaking down fats.
Disorders can include blockages, infections, inflammation, or structural abnormalities. Early diagnosis is important to prevent liver damage and serious complications.
Symptoms of Bile Duct Disorders
- Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Upper right abdominal pain
- Dark urine and pale stools
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever and chills (if infection is present)
- Itching of the skin
Causes of Bile Duct Disorders
- Bile duct stones (choledocholithiasis)
- Biliary strictures or narrowing of ducts
- Infections such as cholangitis
- Congenital abnormalities of the bile ducts
- Inflammatory conditions like primary sclerosing cholangitis
- Tumors of the bile ducts or pancreas
Diagnosis
- Ultrasound of the abdomen
- MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography)
- ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography)
- CT scan or MRI
- Blood tests for liver function
Treatment Options
- Removal of bile duct stones via ERCP
- Surgery to correct strictures or blockages
- Antibiotics if infection is present
- Supportive care for liver function
- Stent placement in narrowed bile ducts
Proper management of bile duct disorders can prevent liver damage, recurrent infections, and complications such as pancreatitis.
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