Biliary sludge

Biliary Sludge

Biliary sludge (pronunciation: /ˈbɪliˌɛri slʌdʒ/), also known as gallbladder sludge or microlithiasis, is a medical condition characterized by the buildup of small particles in the gallbladder that are composed of cholesterol, calcium bilirubinate, and other bile components.

Etymology

The term "biliary" is derived from the Latin word "bilis", which means "bile", and the English word "sludge", which refers to a thick, muddy, or slushy substance. The term "microlithiasis" is derived from the Greek words "micros" (small), "lithos" (stone), and "-iasis" (condition).

Symptoms

Biliary sludge may not cause any symptoms and can be discovered incidentally during imaging studies. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, biliary sludge can lead to complications such as gallstones, pancreatitis, and cholangitis.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of biliary sludge is typically made through imaging studies such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), or endoscopic ultrasound (EUS).

Treatment

Treatment for biliary sludge depends on the presence and severity of symptoms. In asymptomatic cases, no treatment may be necessary. However, in symptomatic cases or when complications occur, treatment options may include medication, lithotripsy, or surgery.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Biliary sludge
Wikipedia's article - Biliary sludge

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