Cholelithiasis
Alternative names:
gallstones
Symptoms:
Symptoms usually manifest after a stone of sufficient
size (usually > 8mm) blocks the cystic duct, which drains
the gallbladder, or the common bile duct, which is the main
duct draining into the duodenum. Collectively, these ducts
form part of the biliary system. A stone blocking the opening
from the gallbladder or cystic duct usually produces symptoms
of biliary colic, which is right upper quadrant abdominal
pain that feels like cramping. If the stone does not pass
into the duodenum but continues to block the cystic duct,
acute cholecystitis results. If the common bile duct is
blocked for a substantial period of time, certain bacteria
may find their way up behind the stone and grow in the stagnant
bile producing symptoms of cholangitis. Cholangitis is a
serious condition and usually requires hospitalization for
treatment. Furthermore, the continued blockage of normal
bile flow may produce jaundice. In addition, stones blocking
the lower end of the common bile duct where it enters the
duodenum may obstruct secretion from the pancreas producing
pancreatitis. This condition can also be serious and may
require hospitalization. In general, pay attention to the
following symptoms:
- abdominal pain
- in the right upper quadrant or in the middle of the
upper abdomen
- may be recurrent
- sharp or cramping or dull
- may radiate to the back or below the right shoulder
blade
- made worse by fatty or greasy foods
- occurs within minutes following meals
- jaundice
- fever
Note: Often there are no symptoms.
Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
Signs and tests:
Tests to detect presence of gallstones or inflammation:
This disease may also alter the results of the following
tests:
Updated Date: 06/22/00
Updated by: James P. Dolan, MD Research Fellow
and Senior Resident in Surgery, University of California,
San Francisco
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