Cholelithiasis (Gallstones)

Gallstones (cholelithiasis) are highly prevalent, but most are asymptomatic. Cholelithiasis is the most common gastrointestinal condition to require hospitalization in developed countries.

Common risk factors include older age, a family history, female sex and pregnancy, obesity, rapid weight loss, and certain drugs.

Abdominal ultrasound provides effective diagnostic imaging.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is definitive treatment for symptomatic patients.

Complications such as cholecystitis, cholangitis, and pancreatitis develop in 3% of symptomatic patients annually.

Cholelithiasis is the presence of solid concretions (stones) in the gallbladder. Choledocholithiasis is the term used when gallstones have moved into the bile ducts. Symptoms occur if a stone obstructs the cystic, bile, or pancreatic duct.

Most gallstones in developed countries (>90%) consist of cholesterol.[1]European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL). EASL clinical practice guidelines on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of gallstones. J Hepatol. 2016 Jul;65(1):146-81. https://www.journal-of-hepatology.eu/article/S0168-8278(16)30032-0/fulltext http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27085810?tool=bestpractice.com