Cholangitis

PATHOGENS

• Frequently polymicrobial, usually gastrointestinal flora.
  • E. coli (22-50%), Klebsiella species (15-20%), Enterobacter species (5-10%)
  • Enterococcus (10-20%) and anaerobes (often of unclear relevance)
    • The pathogenic role of enterococci and anaerobes is not well defined, and empirical coverage for these organisms is not usually required.
• Resistant pathogens may be encountered in patients with healthcare-associated infections or recent antibiotic use; empirical coverage should be adjusted accordingly.