The presence of gallstones in the gallbladder. The stones are formed from bile salts, lecithin, and cholesterol . They may be as small as a grain of sand, or become as large as an inch in diameter. If symptoms are present, they are similar to acute cholecystitis , or cholangitis .
Symptoms usually occur only when the stones block one of the ducts in the biliary system .
Cholelithiasis is very common with the incidence 1 out of 1,000 people. The prevalence is greater in women, native Americans, and people over 40. The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.