What is Ascending cholangitis?

a bacterial infection of the biliary tree

What is the typical causative organism of Ascending cholangitis?

E. coli

What is the most common predisposing factor of Ascending cholangitis?

Gallstones

What is Charcot's triad? (Ascending cholangitis)

• fever is the most common feature, seen in 90% of patients
• RUQ pain 70%
• jaundice 60%

What is the first line investigation for Ascending cholangitis?

ultrasound is generally used first-line in suspected cases to look for bile duct dilation and bile duct stones

What is the management for Ascending cholangitis?

• intravenous antibiotics
• endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) after 24-48 hours to relieve any obstruction