Inflammation, infection, stones, or obstruction of the gallbladder.
Alternative Names
Biliary disease; Gallbladder attack
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The gallbladder is a sac located under the liver. It stores and concentrates the bile produced in the liver, which aids in the digestion of fats. Bile is released from the gallbladder in response to food, especially fats , in the upper small intestine ( duodenum ). Conditions which slow or obstruct the flow of bile out of the gallbladder result in gallbladder disease.
Types of gallbladder disease include:
cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) cholelithiasis ( gall stones )
Signs and tests
Examination of the abdomen by touch ( palpation ) may reveal tenderness.
Tests that detect the presence of gallstones or inflammation include:
abdominal ultrasoundabdominal CT scanabdominal X-raygall bladder radionuclide scan A CBC shows infection by an elevated white blood cell count This disease may also alter the results of the following tests:
lipase amylase amylase, urinechemistry panel ( chem-20 )
Treatment
Treatment depends on the specific type of gallbladder disease.
Expectations (prognosis)
See the specific type of gallbladder disease.
Complications
See the specific type of gallbladder disease.
Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of gallbladder disease.
Prevention
In most cases, prevention is not possible. Reducing intake of fatty foods and weight reduction may reduce symptoms in people with gallbladder disease.