Gallbladder disease
Definition
Gall bladder disease includes inflammation, infection, stones, or obstruction of the gallbladder.
Alternative Names
Biliary disease; Gallbladder attack; Biliary colicCauses
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)
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