Choledochitis is a medical condition that occurs when the common bile duct becomes inflamed. The correct pronunciation is /kɒliːdəʊkaɪtɪs/. The first syllable is pronounced as "col-e," with a long "o" and a schwa sound. The second syllable is pronounced with a long "o" and a soft "i," like "dough." The third syllable is pronounced with a hard "k" sound before a long "o," and the final syllable is pronounced with a soft "i" and "tis" with a "t" and "s" sound. Remembering this complex spelling might be challenging, but it's all worth it to have the right pronunciation.
Choledochitis, also known as bile duct infection, is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the common bile duct. The common bile duct is a tube-like structure that transports bile from the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine for digestion. Choledochitis occurs when this duct becomes infected, leading to swelling, pain, and potentially serious complications.
The inflammation in choledochitis is typically caused by the presence of bacteria in the bile duct, which can occur due to various factors including gallstones, tumors, or a bacterial infection spreading from other areas of the body. The symptoms of choledochitis often include abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), fever, and chills. If left untreated, the infection can spread to nearby organs and lead to serious complications such as sepsis or liver damage.
Diagnosis of choledochitis typically involves a combination of physical examination, blood tests to detect signs of infection and liver function, as well as imaging tests like ultrasound or magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) to visualize the bile ducts. Treatment for choledochitis usually involves hospitalization and administration of antibiotics to control the infection. In severe cases or when there is obstruction of the bile duct, surgery may be necessary to remove gallstones or repair any blockages.
In conclusion, choledochitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the common bile duct, most commonly caused by a bacterial infection. Prompt medical intervention is crucial to prevent further complications and ensure a successful recovery.
Inflammation of the common bile-duct.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "choledochitis" is derived from two Greek roots: "chole" meaning "bile" and "doche" meaning "duct". The suffix "-itis" in medical terminology is used to indicate inflammation. Therefore, "choledochitis" refers to the inflammation of the common bile duct, which is a medical condition associated with the presence of gallstones or other factors that obstruct the bile flow from the liver into the small intestine.