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Choledocholithiasis is a condition where gallstones get stuck in the common bile duct(CBD), the main tube that carries bile from the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine. While most gallstones form in the gallbladder, they can travel and get lodged in this larger duct, causing a blockage. This can lead to serious and painful complications if left untreated.  Common causes Most cases of choledocholithiasis occur when a gallstone formed in the gallbladder migrates into the common bile duct and gets lodged there. Less commonly, stones can form directly within the bile ducts, especially in people with liver disease or certain infections.  Existing gallstones (cholelithiasis): Having stones in your gallbladder is the primary risk factor. Small stones are more likely to escape the gallbladder and cause a blockage in the common bile duct. Previous gallbladder removal: Even after the gallbladder is removed, stones can form in the bile ducts themselves, which is known as "pri...

Cholelithiasis is the medical term for gallstones, which are hard, pebble-like deposits that form in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver that stores bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. Gallstones are often asymptomatic, or "silent," and don't interfere with the gallbladder, liver, or pancreas. However, when gallstones block the bile ducts, they can cause a sudden, intense gallbladder attack that requires medical attention.  Common causes Gallstones form when the bile stored in the gallbladder hardens and crystallizes. This can occur if the bile contains too much cholesterol, too much bilirubin, or not enough bile salts.  Cholesterol gallstones: These are the most common type and are yellow in color. They can form when: Your liver produces too much cholesterol, and your bile is unable to dissolve it. The gallbladder doesn't empty completely or frequently enough, causing the bile to become overly concentrated. Pigment ...

Cholangitis is inflammation and infection of the bile ducts, which are the tubes that carry bile from the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine. A blockage in these ducts causes bile to back up, leading to a bacterial infection and a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.  Common causes Blockage in the bile duct: This is the most common cause of acute cholangitis. The blockage can be due to a gallstone, a tumor, blood clots, or scarring from a previous surgery. Autoimmune conditions: Certain autoimmune disorders, like primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), cause chronic inflammation and scarring in the bile ducts. Medical procedures: Rarely, a medical procedure involving the bile ducts, such as an ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography), can cause an infection. Parasitic infections: In some parts of the world, parasitic worms or liver flukes can cause a blockage in the bile ducts. Other con...