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Recurrent cholangitis secondary to oriental cholangiohepatitis
1Department of Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology
|August 1, 1989
Summary
Oriental cholangiohepatitis, a liver disease endemic to East Asia, presents symptoms similar to gallstone-related cholangitis. Early suspicion in patients with parasitic infection or endemic area history is crucial for distinct diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Oriental cholangiohepatitis (OCH) is a liver disease endemic to East Asia.
- Increased immigration has led to a rise in OCH cases in the United States.
- OCH shares symptoms with gallstone-associated cholangitis, necessitating careful differentiation.
Observation:
- A Korean woman presented with recurrent cholangitis and a liver mass.
- Ultrasound revealed a normal gallbladder, ruling out gallstones as the primary cause.
- The recurrent cholangitis was ultimately diagnosed as Oriental cholangiohepatitis.
Findings:
- OCH symptoms mimic those of gallstone-induced cholangitis.
- The natural history and treatment of OCH differ significantly from gallstone disease.
- Parasitic infestations (Ascaris lumbricoides, Clonorchis sinensis) are key diagnostic clues for OCH.
Implications:
- Prompt diagnosis of OCH is vital, as treatment differs from gallstone cholangitis.
- Awareness of OCH is important for clinicians managing patients from or who have lived in endemic regions.
- Suspecting OCH in relevant patient populations can prevent misdiagnosis and ensure appropriate management.