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Gallbladder Function And Stone Pathophysiology
- The gallbladder stores and concentrates bile and delivers it in a regulated way to the duodenum.
- Gallstones most commonly form from bile stasis and risk factors include age, obesity, medications, and certain populations.
History To Diagnose Biliary Colic
- Ask about crescendo severe postprandial pain lasting 30 minutes to a few hours, often at night, to identify biliary colic.
- Probe for absence of bloating/gas to distinguish biliary colic from dyspepsia.
Initial Workup For Suspected Gallstones
- Order a hepatic function panel and a right upper quadrant ultrasound as initial tests for suspected symptomatic gallstones.
- Use ultrasound first because it best detects gallbladder stones and sludge.