DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
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Chronic Condition
Gallstone Disease (Cholelithiasis)
MODERATE
Formation of stones in the gallbladder, commonly cholesterol or pigment stones. Very common in adults, especially women. Can be asymptomatic or cause biliary colic, cholecystitis, or other complications.
Global Affected
250.0M
Countries
15
Symptoms
Right upper quadrant pain (biliary colic)
Pain after fatty meals
Nausea/vomiting
Back/shoulder pain
Bloating
Fever (if infection)
Treatment Options
Observation (asymptomatic)
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Ursodeoxycholic acid
ERCP with sphincterotomy
Open cholecystectomy (rarely)
Risk Factors
1Female gender
2Age >40
3Obesity
4Pregnancy
5Rapid weight loss
6Diabetes
7Native American ancestry
8Hemolytic disease
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Abdominal ultrasound
- 2CT scan
- 3MRCP
- 4HIDA scan
- 5Blood tests (if complications)
Prognosis
Excellent with cholecystectomy. Recurrence after surgery rare. Most asymptomatic stones never cause symptoms. Complications uncommon but serious.
Prevention
- Maintaining healthy weight
- Gradual weight loss
- Regular physical activity
- Moderate fat intake
- Avoiding crash diets
Research Status
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy definitive treatment for symptomatic gallstones. Ursodeoxycholic acid can dissolve small cholesterol stones. ERCP for bile duct stones. Asymptomatic stones usually observed.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://medlineplus.gov
- https://www.mayoclinic.org
- https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
- https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.