Can gallstones cause sepsis?

Gallstones may cause sepsis, especially if they lead to cholecystitis or bile duct infection, in which bacteria enter the bloodstream and cause systemic infection. Treatment may include antibiotics to control the infection and surgery to remove the gallbladder or drain the bile duct.

1. Gallstones themselves will not directly cause sepsis, but when the stones block the bile duct or gallbladder, it may cause cholecystitis or cholangitis. Bacteria enter the blood circulation through the damaged bile duct wall, leading to sepsis. Common bacteria include Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, etc.

2. The treatment of sepsis is mainly to control infection. Sensitive antibiotics, such as cephalosporins, penicillins or carbapenems, should be selected according to the results of bacterial culture. At the same time, vital signs should be monitored and fluids should be supplemented to maintain blood pressure and organ function.

3. When gallstones cause infection, surgery is the only cure. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the first choice, with less trauma and faster recovery. For patients who cannot undergo surgery, percutaneous transhepatic bile duct drainage can be used to relieve symptoms, and surgery can be performed after the infection is controlled.

4. The key to preventing sepsis is to treat gallstones and their complications in a timely manner. If you experience symptoms such as right upper abdominal pain, fever, and jaundice, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Use ultrasound, CT, or magnetic resonance pancreatobiliary angiography to confirm the diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.

Although gallstones are common, ignoring their complications may lead to serious consequences. Timely medical treatment and standardized treatment are the key to avoiding sepsis.