Gallbladder/Biliary System Pathologies Flashcards
gallstones are also called…
cholelithiasis
gallstones can be radiolucent or radiopaque, whats the difference between the two?
most radiolucent stones are mode of cholesterol
most radiopaque stones contain calcium
Symptoms of cholelithiasis:
- pain in upper abdomen
- pain in back or right shoulder
- nausea
- vomiting
- fever
- jaundice
Radiographic appearance of cholelithiasis:
- if radiopaque, may be seen or regular radiographs
- CT with contrast can show as well for confirmation
Whats the modality of choice for confirming/diagnosis cholelithiasis?
Ultrasound
Inflammation of the gallbladder
cholecystitis
how does cholecystitis usually occur?
after impacted gallstone obstructs the cystic duct
Cholecystitis can cause:
- injury to the mucosal wall which allows bacteria to enter
- can become emphysematous cholecystitis - may require surgery (ERCP)
Symptoms of cholecystitis?
- sudden intense pain in right upper belly, back and right shoulder blade
- vomiting
- fever
- bloating
- jaundice
- loose and light colored bowel movements
Radiographic appearance of cholecystitis:
- air around the gallbladder &/or stones on x-ray/CT
- Ultrasound is usually the one used
When there is at least one gallstone in the common bile duct
May block duct
choledocholithiasis
Symptoms of choledocholithiasis
Same as cholecystitis
Radiographic appearance of choledocholithiasis
- May see stones themselves if they’re radiopaque
- or filling defect for blocked duct
Progression of cholelithiasis from low to high severity:
- cholelithiasis
- cholecystitis
- choledocholithiasis
- cholangitis
What is cholangitis?
inflammation of the entire bile duct system
