What is Biliary Dysfunction?

• Biliary dysfunction refers to problems with the normal flow of bile from the liver through the bile ducts into the small intestine
• Bile is essential for digestion, especially of fats
• Dysfunction can involve the gallbladder, bile ducts, or sphincter of Oddi
• It may cause pain, digestive issues, and lead to other liver or gallbladder problems

What Causes Biliary Dysfunction?

• Gallstones blocking bile ducts
• Inflammation of the bile ducts (cholangitis)
• Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (a muscle valve that controls bile flow)
• Bile duct strictures or scarring
• Post-surgical complications (especially after gallbladder removal)
• Autoimmune or genetic bile duct disorders

What Are the Symptoms?

• Upper right abdominal pain (especially after eating)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Indigestion or bloating
• Fatty food intolerance
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
• Dark urine and pale stools
• Fever (if infection is present)

How is Biliary Dysfunction Diagnosed?

• Physical exam and symptom review
• Blood tests to check liver function and inflammation
• Abdominal ultrasound to look at gallbladder and bile ducts
• MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography) for detailed imaging
• HIDA scan to assess bile flow
• Endoscopic procedures like ERCP if a blockage or dysfunction is suspected

What is the Treatment?

• Depends on the cause and severity of dysfunction

Common Treatments Include:
• Medications to relieve symptoms or reduce bile thickening
• Antibiotics for infections
• Endoscopic procedures (like ERCP) to remove blockages or place stents
• Surgery (e.g., gallbladder removal or bile duct repair)
• Diet changes – low-fat meals and avoiding trigger foods

What Are the Complications?

• Chronic pain and digestive issues
• Infections (cholangitis)
• Gallstone formation
• Jaundice and liver damage
• Pancreatitis if the pancreatic duct is also affected

How Can It Be Prevented?

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Eat a balanced, low-fat diet
• Avoid skipping meals and sudden weight loss
• Treat gallbladder or liver conditions early
• Regular checkups if you’ve had gallbladder surgery or bile duct issues

When to Seek Medical Help

• Persistent abdominal pain, especially after meals
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Fever with chills
• Nausea or vomiting that doesn’t go away
• Dark urine or light-colored stools