A biloma is a collection of bile in the abdomen that can be caused by liver damage or bile duct problems. Symptoms include abdominal pain and tenderness, and treatment options depend on the severity and location of the cyst. In some cases, the body can reabsorb the contents, but drainage may be necessary if the cyst is large or infected. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed, and those at risk should be monitored for complications. Follow-up appointments are important for early detection and treatment.
A biloma or bile cyst is a collection of bile within the abdomen that has been encapsulated with epithelial cells. There are a number of situations that can contribute to the formation of this type of cyst, and different treatment options are available, depending on its location, size, and severity. Symptoms associated with a bile cyst can vary, with some patients experiencing problems such as abdominal pain and tenderness, or symptoms such as fever and confusion, if the cyst becomes infected.
Bile, a fluid produced in the liver, plays a role in the digestive process. Two common reasons for biloma formation include liver damage and bile duct problems. These deposits can also form after the gallbladder is removed. The cyst can be identified with the use of ultrasound of the abdomen, where the bile deposit will appear clearly in the image. Imaging can be used to determine whether or not an action should be taken.
In some cases, the problem resolves itself, with the body gradually reabsorbing the contents. In other cases, the cyst may require drainage, especially if it is large and the body cannot eliminate it on its own or when it becomes infected. If an infection occurs, the drainage will be accompanied by a wash to ensure that all infected material has been cleared away. A drain may also be left in, depending on the circumstances, so it can drain as it heals.
If a biloma needs to be drained, the use of antibiotics may be recommended to prevent or treat the infection. These medications can address the growth of microorganisms that can exploit the problem to gain a foothold in the body. Anti-inflammatory medications may also be prescribed to address the inflammation and swelling that may be causing the patient discomfort. The patient may also be advised to rest while the bile cyst heals.
People at risk for bilomas include those with liver damage or people who have had a cholecystectomy procedure. These patients are usually monitored for signs of complications, including cysts, which allows health care providers to detect complications before they develop into a serious medical problem. This is an important reason for making and keeping follow-up appointments, as medical problems may not generate symptoms in their early stages, so a patient may feel healthy, but need treatment.
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