Cholelithiasis (Gall Stones)

The accumulation of gall stones within the gallbladder. Gall stones are created via a series of events:

1. The formation of bile supersaturated with cholesterol, a.k.a. "bile sludge" or "gallbladder sludge".
2. The nucleation of cholesterol crystals from within the supersaturated bile.
3. Gallbladder hypo-motility (due to pregnancy, adiposity, diabetes, etc.) leading to stasis of bile.
4. Enlarge of crystals due to stasis, creating stones.

Signs and symptoms of gall stones include:

• Pain in the RUQ of the abdomen.
• Bloating.
• Nausea and vomiting after a fatty meal (when the gallbladder contracts).

Sequelae of gall stones can lead to death.

1. Blockage of the cystic duct by gall stones.
2. Distention of the gallbladder.
3. Ischemia of the gallbladder wall.
4. Necrosis of the gallbladder wall.
5. Peritonitis.