Choledocholithiasis (stone in bile duct)

About Choledocholithiasis (stone in bile duct)

Presence of gallstones in the common bile duct. The condition causes yellowing of the skin from elevated bilirubin and can cause liver damage. It is a medical emergency. The gallstones need to be removed by ERCP or surgery.

Symptoms

Abdominal pain (right upper abdomen), vomiting, fever, yellowing eyes or skin.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. Identification of the gallstone in the common bile duct is performed by one of the following methods: CT scan, MRCP (Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography), ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography), Ultrasound, Endoscopic Ultrasound, or Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangiogram (PTCA).

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Lipase, MRI, Ultrasound.

Conventional treatment summary

Treatment may include: surgery to remove the gallbladder and stones, and/or ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) and a sphincterotomy (a surgical cut into the opening of the common bile duct). Antibiotics may be given as well.

Medical specialties

Gastroenterology · Pediatric Gastroenterology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Choledocholithiasis (stone in bile duct).