Cholelithiasis

Cholelithiasis (pronounced: koh-leh-lih-THIGH-uh-sis) is a medical condition characterized by the formation of gallstones in the gallbladder or bile ducts. The term is derived from the Greek words "chole" meaning bile, "lithos" meaning stone, and "iasis" meaning condition.

Etymology

The term "Cholelithiasis" is derived from the Greek words "chole" (bile), "lithos" (stone), and "iasis" (condition). This directly translates to "condition of bile stones", accurately describing the nature of the condition.

Definition

Cholelithiasis is a medical condition where one or more gallstones form in the gallbladder or bile ducts. These stones are hardened deposits that can vary in size and are primarily composed of cholesterol, bile pigments, and calcium salts.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Cholelithiasis can vary greatly from person to person. Some individuals may remain asymptomatic, while others may experience severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice. These symptoms often occur after a fatty meal and are commonly referred to as a gallbladder attack.

Causes

The primary cause of Cholelithiasis is an imbalance in the substances that make up bile. This can lead to the formation of gallstones. Other factors that can increase the risk of developing Cholelithiasis include obesity, rapid weight loss, diabetes, and certain genetic factors.

Treatment

Treatment for Cholelithiasis often depends on the severity of the condition. In cases where the patient is asymptomatic, no treatment may be necessary. However, in cases where the patient is experiencing severe symptoms, treatment options may include medication to dissolve the gallstones or surgery to remove the gallbladder, a procedure known as a cholecystectomy.

Related Terms

• Gallstones
• Gallbladder attack
• Cholecystectomy
• Bile ducts

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Cholelithiasis
• Wikipedia's article - Cholelithiasis

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