Cholangitis is an infection of the common bile duct, the tube that carries bile from the liver to the gallbladder and intestines. Cholangitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection, which can occur when the duct is blocked by something, such as a gallstone or tumor. The infection causing this condition may also spread to the liver. Risk factors include a previous history of gallstones, sclerosing cholangitis, HIV, narrowing of the common bile duct, and, rarely, travel to countries where you might catch a worm or parasite infection. Antibiotics to cure infection are tried first for most patients. ERCP or other surgical procedure is done when the patient is stable. Patients who are very ill or are quickly getting worse may need surgery right away.