Recurrent oriental cholangiohepatitis

The cases of two patients with recurrent oriental cholangiohepatitis are discussed. This syndrome, which has hitherto been rarely encountered in the Western hemisphere, may be seen with increasing frequency because of the influx of immigrants from southeast Asia. Patients typically present with symptoms of recurrent cholangitis. Findings at operation consist of primary bile duct stones associated with intrahepatic and extrahepatic ductal strictures. Surgical therapy is internal biliary bypass to prevent recurrent bile duct obstruction from stones. Even with such treatment, recurrence of cholangitis is common.