Signs of Sclerosing cholangitis (Bile duct disease)

Sclerosing Cholangitis (Bile Duct Disease)

Description

A rare progressive disorder characterized by inflammation, thickening, and scarring within bile ducts. The bile ducts carry bile from the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine. This process causes a back up of bile resulting in liver failure and the symptoms observed. Medications can slow down the process of liver destruction but the only cure is a liver transplant. This disorder is more common in men and is usually seen in patients 35-45 years of age.

Symptoms

Yellowing skin, yellowing of the eyes, itching, abdominal pain, abdominal pain in the right upper abdomen, malaise, loss of appetite, indigestion, enlarged liver, enlarged spleen, dark urine, light-colored stools.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests that help confirm the diagnosis include: ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography), PTC (percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram), liver biopsy, abdominal CT scan, MRCP (abdominal MRI/magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography), and abdominal ultrasound.

Standard Workup

CBC
Chem 12
Lipase
CT Scan
MRI
Ultrasound

Treatment

Treatment options aimed at reducing the damage and minimizing the symptoms include: ursodiol, antibiotics, antihistamines, and bile acid resins. Procedures to decrease the bile duct blockage include: balloon dilation and stent placement, and biliary duct surgery. The disease is progressive and the only cure is a liver transplant.