BACKGROUND: Choledochal cyst is an uncommon anomaly of the biliary tract. Experience with this disorder, with emphasis on the role of ERCP in management, is presented. METHODS: All pertinent data for 13 patients with choledochal cyst seen between 1987 and 1998 were reviewed, retrospectively. OBSERVATIONS: Cholangitis, either alone or associated with other findings, was the main presenting feature (69.23% of patients). Bilobar Caroli's disease was the most common cyst type (46.15% of patients). ERCP was diagnostic alone in 46.15% of patients and therapeutic in 53.85%. CONCLUSIONS: Choledochal cyst is a complex condition that requires early diagnosis. Long-term management remains controversial, and guidelines for treatment require revision. Whether interventional ERCP will obviate the need for surgery or alter the malignant potential of the disorder remains uncertain.
BACKGROUND: Choledochal cyst is an uncommon anomaly of the biliary tract. Experience with this disorder, with emphasis on the role of ERCP in management, is presented. METHODS: All pertinent data for 13 patients with choledochal cyst seen between 1987 and 1998 were reviewed, retrospectively. OBSERVATIONS: Cholangitis, either alone or associated with other findings, was the main presenting feature (69.23% of patients). Bilobar Caroli's disease was the most common cyst type (46.15% of patients). ERCP was diagnostic alone in 46.15% of patients and therapeutic in 53.85%. CONCLUSIONS: Choledochal cyst is a complex condition that requires early diagnosis. Long-term management remains controversial, and guidelines for treatment require revision. Whether interventional ERCP will obviate the need for surgery or alter the malignant potential of the disorder remains uncertain.