Key Points
- Stabilize ABCs; begin targeted evaluation without delaying life-saving therapy.
- Use system-specific risk tools to guide testing and disposition.
- Order high-yield tests first; escalate imaging when indicated.
- Start evidence-based initial therapy and reassess frequently.
Algorithm
- Primary survey and vitals; IV access and monitors.
- Focused history/physical; identify red flags and likely etiologies.
- Order system-appropriate labs and imaging (see Investigations).
- Initiate guideline-based empiric therapy (see Pharmacology).
- Reassess response; arrange consultation and definitive management.
Clinical Synopsis & Reasoning
For Acute Cholangitis Dx Early Mgmt, frame the differential by acuity and pathophysiology, then align diagnostics to the leading hypotheses. Prioritize stabilization while obtaining high‑yield studies such as CBC (Bleeding/anemia), CMP (LFTs/electrolytes), Lipase (if pancreatitis) (Pancreatic enzyme), CT Abd/Pelvis (selected) (Complications). Incorporate bedside imaging and targeted labs to define severity and identify complications; synthesize results with clinical trajectory to refine the working diagnosis and disposition needs.
Treatment Strategy & Disposition
Initiate disease‑directed therapy alongside supportive care, titrating to objective response. Pharmacologic options commonly include PPI (IV), Octreotide (variceal). Use validated frameworks (e.g., Empiric Antibiotic Examples) to guide escalation and site of care. Address precipitating factors, de‑escalate empiric therapies with data, and arrange follow‑up for monitoring and risk‑factor modification; admit patients with instability, high risk of deterioration, or needs for close monitoring.
Epidemiology / Risk Factors
- NSAIDs/alcohol; biliary disease
Investigations
| Test | Role / Rationale | Typical Findings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| CBC | Bleeding/anemia | Low Hgb | |
| CMP | LFTs/electrolytes | Abnormal LFTs | |
| Lipase (if pancreatitis) | Pancreatic enzyme | Elevated | |
| CT Abd/Pelvis (selected) | Complications | Findings vary |
Empiric Antibiotic Examples
| Setting | Regimen |
|---|---|
| Community acquired | Ceftriaxone + metronidazole OR piperacillin–tazobactam |
| Severe or healthcare associated | Piperacillin–tazobactam or carbapenem |
Pharmacology
| Medication | Mechanism | Onset | Role in Therapy | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Piperacillin-tazobactam | β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor | Hours | Severe biliary infection | AKI |
| Ceftriaxone + metronidazole | Cephalosporin + nitroimidazole | Hours | Moderate disease | Allergy |
| Analgesia/antiemetic | Symptomatic control | Minutes | Supportive care | Sedation; QT (ondansetron) |
Prognosis / Complications
- Varies by etiology and bleeding severity; rebleeding/perforation
Patient Education / Counseling
- Explain red flags and when to seek emergent care.
- Reinforce medication adherence and follow-up plan.
Notes
Give vitamin K if coagulopathic and consider reversal before sphincterotomy. Consult GI early for ERCP logistics.