Gall Bladder Stone
Gallbladder stones are commonly detected on ultrasound. Several factors increase the risk of developing them, including:
- Long-term parenteral nutrition
- Being a middle-aged female
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Certain medications (e.g., ceftriaxone, estrogen)
- Rapid weight loss
- Diseases affecting the ileum
Symptoms of Gallbladder Stones:
Many people have gallbladder stones without any symptoms, and they may be discovered accidentally on routine ultrasound. When symptoms occur, they may include:
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Jaundice
Stones can move into the bile duct and cause fever and jaundice. If a stone briefly blocks the pancreatic duct, it can trigger an episode of pancreatitis. Additionally, very large stones (over 3 cm) increase the risk of gallbladder cancer.
Diagnosis:
Transabdominal ultrasound is the most reliable test for identifying gallbladder stones. In some cases, endoscopic ultrasound may be needed to detect very small stones.
Treatment:
Medications generally do not work well for gallbladder stones. Surgery is the most effective treatment.
- Symptomatic stones should be removed surgically.
- Asymptomatic stones can be monitored, except when a stone is larger than 3 cm—these patients are advised to undergo surgery due to cancer risk.
- If a stone has moved into the common bile duct (CBD), it should be removed using ERCP.