Last reviewed: 7 Jan 2023
Last updated: 29 Dec 2022
Summary
Definition
History and exam
Key diagnostic factors
- pain in the upper right quadrant
- tenderness in the right upper quadrant
- signs and symptoms of inflammation
- palpable mass
- presence of risk factors
Risk factors
- gallstones
- physical inactivity
- low fibre intake
- severe illness
- trauma
- severe burns
- total parenteral nutrition (TPN)
- diabetes
- ceftriaxone
- ciclosporin
- hepatic arterial embolisation
- infections
Diagnostic investigations
1st investigations to order
- CT or MRI of the abdomen
- abdominal ultrasound
- FBC
- CRP
- bilirubin
- LFTs
- serum lipase or amylase
- blood cultures and/or bile cultures
Investigations to consider
- magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP)
- endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)
Treatment algorithmPage Error | BMJ Best Practice
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