Fever
Jaundice
Abdominal pain, particularly in the right upper quadrant
Dark urine
Pale stools
Nausea and vomiting
What is the Treatment?
Early and aggressive treatment is crucial to managing cholangitis in children. The mainstay of treatment includes:
Intravenous antibiotics to combat bacterial infection
Supportive care, including hydration and pain management
Interventional procedures to relieve bile duct obstruction, such as ERCP or surgical intervention
In severe or recurrent cases, liver transplant may be considered
How Can Cholangitis be Prevented?
Preventing cholangitis involves addressing the underlying causes. For children with known biliary anomalies or post-surgical risk, regular monitoring and early intervention are key. Maintaining good hygiene and timely treatment of infections can also help reduce the risk.
Prognosis
The prognosis for children with cholangitis varies depending on the underlying cause and the promptness of treatment. With early and appropriate medical intervention, most children recover well. However, those with chronic conditions like primary sclerosing cholangitis may require ongoing medical care and potentially a liver transplant.
