Haemobilia

Haemobilia is a rare medical condition characterized by bleeding into the biliary tract, often due to trauma or surgery. This condition can lead to serious complications, including jaundice, biliary obstruction, and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Causes

Haemobilia is most commonly caused by trauma or surgery to the liver or biliary tract. Other causes can include tumors, infections, and vascular abnormalities. In rare cases, it can also be caused by liver biopsy, cholecystectomy, or percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography.

Symptoms

The symptoms of haemobilia can vary depending on the severity of the condition. They can include:

• Jaundice
• Abdominal pain
• Melena (dark, tarry stools)
• Hematemesis (vomiting blood)
• Biliary colic (pain in the gallbladder)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of haemobilia can be challenging due to its rarity and the nonspecific nature of its symptoms. It is often diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies. Endoscopy and angiography can also be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment of haemobilia depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. It can include endoscopic therapy, angiographic embolization, and surgery. In severe cases, liver transplantation may be necessary.

See also

• Biliary tract
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Jaundice

Haemobilia Resources
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