Hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery mnemonic

Reynolds' pentad in ascending cholangitis

The mnemonic

Charcot's triad plus two

What each word stands for

  • FeverCharcot's triad, first component
  • JaundiceCharcot's triad, second component
  • RUQ painCharcot's triad, third component
  • HypotensionAdded in Reynolds' pentad, shows septic shock
  • ConfusionAdded in Reynolds' pentad, altered mental status

Why it matters clinically

The pentad marks severe suppurative cholangitis that needs urgent biliary decompression.

Where it stops being reliable

Many patients present with only some features, so absence of the full pentad does not exclude cholangitis.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery mnemonic?

Charcot's triad plus two. It helps you recall: Reynolds' pentad in ascending cholangitis.

What does "Fever" stand for?

Charcot's triad, first component

What does "Jaundice" stand for?

Charcot's triad, second component

What does "RUQ pain" stand for?

Charcot's triad, third component

What are all the parts of the Charcot's triad plus two mnemonic?

Fever: Charcot's triad, first component; Jaundice: Charcot's triad, second component; RUQ pain: Charcot's triad, third component; Hypotension: Added in Reynolds' pentad, shows septic shock; Confusion: Added in Reynolds' pentad, altered mental status.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery in General Surgery.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Many patients present with only some features, so absence of the full pentad does not exclude cholangitis.

How is this useful clinically?

The pentad marks severe suppurative cholangitis that needs urgent biliary decompression.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a General Surgery question about Hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.