Gallbladder disorders

Gallbladder Disorders

Gallbladder disorders include a wide range of problems that affect the gallbladder and the bile ducts. These conditions can range from minor to life-threatening. Common symptoms of gallbladder disorders range from mild abdominal pain to vomiting and fever. Long-term complications can include life-threatening infections or blockages of the bile ducts. The most common risk factors for developing a gallbladder disorder are being overweight, having diabetes, being an older adult, having a family member with a gallbladder disorder, or having a history of gallstones or gallbladder inflammation.

Types of Gallbladder Disorders

The most common gallbladder disorders are:

• Cholecystitis – Inflammation of the gallbladder due to gallstones or other causes.
• Gallstones – Small, hardened deposits of bile that can block the flow of bile out of the gallbladder.
• Gallbladder Cancer – A rare cancer that forms in the walls of the gallbladder or from cells that line the bile ducts.
• Biliary Dyskinesia – Abnormal contractions of the gallbladder that can cause pain and nausea.
• Acute Cholangitis – An infection of the bile ducts that can spread to other organs and cause sepsis.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Gallbladder disorders can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms can be vague and can mimic many other medical conditions. Diagnosis usually involves a combination of medical tests, such as blood tests, ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRI scans. Treatment options depend on the type of gallbladder disorder and can range from lifestyle modifications and medications to surgical removal of the gallbladder.