​Pathology - Cholelithiasis (Gallstones)

​Pathology - Cholelithiasis (Gallstones) 
Cholelithiasis refers to the presence of gallstones.
Cholesterol stones are linked to obesity, advanced age, Crohn's illness, cystic fibrosis, many pregnancies, sudden weight reduction, clofibrate and estrogen usage, and Native American ancestry.
Pigment stones are linked to alcoholic cirrhosis, hemolytic anemia, biliary tract infection, and advanced age.
Cholelithiasis is predominantly observed in obese women who have given birth multiple times and are over the age of 40.
Pathophysiology: Stones develop in the gallbladder when cholesterol and bilirubin exceed the capacity of bile acids and lecithin to keep them dissolved.
Cholesterol stones are typically radiolucent, however 10%-20% may seem opaque due to calcification.
Pigment stones are radio-opaque and made up of bile pigments.
Assorted gemstones: Consisting of both cholesterol and bile pigments, this kind is the most prevalent and radiolucent.
Typically without symptoms, but can manifest as biliary colic characterized by colicky epigastric and Right Upper Quadrant pain and nausea, particularly after consuming a fatty meal.
Possible complications involve biliary colic, common bile duct obstruction, cholecystitis, acute pancreatitis, gallstone ileus, ascending cholangitis, and potential cancer of the gallbladder.
If experiencing symptoms, have cholecystectomy; if not, no treatment is necessary.