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Updated: May 28, 2026

Bile Salt-induced Biofilm Formation in Enteric Pathogens: Techniques for Identification and Quantification
Published on: May 6, 2018
Microbial profile and antibiotic sensitivity pattern in acute bacterial cholangitis.
Manoj Kumar Sahu1, Ashok Chacko, Amit Kumar Dutta
1Department of Gastrointestinal Sciences, Christian Medical College, Vellore 632 004, India.
Antimicrobial resistance in acute cholangitis is increasing, particularly with E. coli. This study highlights the need to update empiric antibiotic treatment guidelines based on current microbial sensitivity patterns.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Microbiology
Background:
- Acute cholangitis treatment is challenged by evolving antimicrobial sensitivity.
- Understanding microbial profiles and resistance is crucial for effective therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the microbial profile and antibiotic sensitivity patterns in patients with acute bacterial cholangitis.
- To inform empirical antibiotic therapy strategies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of patients (2004-2007) and prospective study (2007-2008).
- Analysis of clinical features, etiology, microbial profiles, therapy, and outcomes.
- Bile and blood cultures were analyzed for microbial growth and antibiotic susceptibility.
Main Results:
- 185 patients with acute cholangitis were studied; choledocholithiasis and malignancy were common predisposing factors.
- Bile cultures were frequently polymicrobial, while blood cultures were less often positive.
- E. coli was the predominant pathogen; high resistance to third-generation cephalosporins and ciprofloxacin was observed in the prospective group.
Conclusions:
- The study demonstrates a significant shift in antimicrobial sensitivity patterns for common pathogens in acute cholangitis.
- Current empiric antibiotic therapy guidelines for acute cholangitis require revision to address rising resistance.
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