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Gallbladder disease

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Definition:

Gall bladder disease includes inflammation, infection, stones, or obstruction of the gallbladder.

Alternative Names:

Biliary disease; Gallbladder attack; Biliary colic

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The gallbladder is a sac located under the liver. It stores and concentrates bile produced in the liver. Bile aids in the digestion of fats, and is released from the gallbladder into the upper small intestine ( duodenum ) in response to food (especially fats). 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 (gallstones)

• Review Date: 5/4/2006
• Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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