Differential Diagnosis for Biliary Infection
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Cholangitis: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the presentation of a biliary infection, which often involves inflammation of the bile ducts, a condition known as cholangitis. It typically occurs due to bacterial infection and can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder, often caused by gallstones blocking the cystic duct, which can lead to infection. It's a common condition that can present with similar symptoms to cholangitis.
- Biliary dyskinesia: A condition where the gallbladder doesn't empty properly, which can lead to infection and inflammation. It might not always present with a clear infection but can cause recurrent biliary-type pain.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Ascending cholangitis with sepsis: A severe infection of the bile ducts that can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent high mortality.
- Emphysematous cholecystitis: A rare but severe infection of the gallbladder where gas forms in the gallbladder wall, often due to a gas-producing organism. It has a high mortality rate if not promptly diagnosed and treated.
- Rare diagnoses
- Biliary tuberculosis: A rare condition where the biliary system is infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It can mimic other biliary diseases and requires a high index of suspicion for diagnosis.
- Biliary fungus ball: A rare condition where a fungal infection forms a "ball" within the biliary system, often in immunocompromised patients. It can cause obstructive jaundice and cholangitis.