Gastroenterology
Biliary Disease
Gastroenterology

Biliary Disease

Cholecystitis, choledocholithiasis, cholangitis, Mirizzi, gallstone ileus.

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ConditionPresentationDiagnosisManagement
Biliary colicRUQ pain radiating to scapula, fatty meal trigger, resolves hoursRUQ US → stonesAnalgesia + elective lap cholecystectomy
Acute cholecystitisConstant RUQ pain + fever + leukocytosis + MurphyRUQ US (wall thickening, pericholecystic fluid); HIDA if equivocalNPO, IV fluids, IV abx (piperacillin-tazobactam), cholecystectomy <72 hr
CholedocholithiasisRUQ/epigastric + jaundice; cholestatic LFTs (↑direct bili, ↑ALP, ↑GGT)US: dilated CBD; MRCPERCP stone extraction → cholecystectomy
Acute cholangitisCharcot triad (RUQ pain + jaundice + fever); Reynolds pentad adds AMS + hypotensionLeukocytosis + cholestasis; ERCP diagnostic + therapeuticIV fluids + abx → urgent ERCP biliary decompression
Mirizzi syndromeStone in cystic duct compresses common hepatic duct → obstructive jaundiceMRCP shows extrinsic compressionERCP or surgery to relieve obstruction
Gallstone ileusLarge stone erodes through fistula → SBO; elderly womenPneumobilia + SBO on imagingEnterolithotomy + fistula repair

High-yield pearls

  • Hereditary spherocytosis → splenectomy prevents pigment gallstones
  • Hemobilia: upper GI bleed + RUQ pain + jaundice after ERCP
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