What is the most common infectious agent seen in acute cholangitis and cholecystitis?

Acute cholangitis and cholecystitis are typically associated with infection of the biliary tree or gallbladder, respectively. The most common infectious agent identified in these conditions is E. coli. This bacterium is part of the normal flora of the gastrointestinal tract and can gain access to the biliary system when there is an obstruction, leading to infection.

In cases of acute cholangitis, the condition often arises due to a blockage in the bile duct, which can lead to bacterial overgrowth and subsequent infection. E. coli is prevalent in biliary infections due to its ability to thrive in anaerobic conditions that can occur when there is bile stasis. In cholecystitis, when the gallbladder becomes inflamed, E. coli also demonstrates a significant role, especially when gallstones obstruct the cystic duct and lead to infection.

Other bacteria, such as Klebsiella, Enterococci, and Streptococcus, can be involved in these infections but are less commonly the primary infectious agents. While Klebsiella is a notable pathogen in certain cases, especially in patients with underlying health issues or in complicated infections, E. coli still stands out as the most frequently identified organism in both acute cholang