Choledochal Cysts

Untreated choledochal cysts can lead to several complications, including cholangitis (inflammation of the bile ducts), pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), liver abscesses, and cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer). Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing these complications and improving patient outcomes.

Treatment options for choledochal cysts depend on the type and severity of the cyst, as well as the presence of symptoms. In some cases, asymptomatic patients may not require treatment. However, in symptomatic patients, treatment may involve surgical resection of the cyst, reconstruction of the biliary tract, or liver transplantation in severe cases.

Choledochal cysts are typically diagnosed using imaging studies, such as ultrasound, CT scan, or magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP). In some cases, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) may also be used to diagnose and treat the condition.

Symptoms of choledochal cysts can vary depending on the type and severity of the cyst. Some common symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). However, some individuals with choledochal cysts may not experience any symptoms at all.

There are five types of choledochal cysts, classified according to the Todani classification system. These include Type I, Type II, Type III, Type IV (subdivided into IVa and IVb), and Type V (also known as Caroli’s disease). Each type has unique characteristics and may require different approaches to diagnosis and treatment.