Ascending Cholangitis

Question 1

What is ascending cholangitis

Answer 1

Bacterial infection- typically E.coli of the biliary tree. The most common predisposing factor is gallstones

Question 2

Charcot’s triad

Answer 2

RUQ pain
Fever
Jaundice

Question 3

What extra features of Charcot’s triad makes up Reynolds’ pentad

Answer 3

Hypotension and confusion

Question 4

Management initially of Ascending Cholangitis

Answer 4

Intravenous antibiotics
ERCP- 24-48 hours to relieve any obstruction
Raised inflammatory markers