Many gallstones, especially
silent stones, are discovered by accident during
tests for other problems. But when gallstones
are suspected to be the cause of symptoms, the
doctor is likely to do an ultrasound exam.
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images
of organs. Sound waves are sent toward the
gallbladder through a handheld device that a
technician glides over the abdomen. The sound
waves bounce off the gallbladder, liver, and
other organs such as a pregnant uterus, and
their echoes make electrical impulses that
create a picture of the organ on a video
monitor. If stones are present, the sound waves
will bounce off them, too, showing their
location. Ultrasound is the most sensitive and
specific test for gallstones.
Other tests may also be used.
- Computed tomography (CT) scan may
show the gallstones or complications.
- Magnetic resonance cholangiogram
may diagnose blocked bile ducts.
- Cholescintigraphy (HIDA scan) is
used to diagnose abnormal contraction of the
gallbladder or obstruction. The patient is
injected with a radioactive material that is
taken up in the gallbladder, which is then
stimulated to contract.
- Endoscopic retrograde
cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). The
patient swallows an endoscope—a long,
flexible, lighted tube connected to a
computer and TV monitor. The doctor guides
the endoscope through the stomach and into
the small intestine. The doctor then injects
a special dye that temporarily stains the
ducts in the biliary system. ERCP is used to
locate and remove stones in the ducts.
- Blood tests. Blood tests may be
used to look for signs of infection,
obstruction, pancreatitis, or jaundice.
Gallstone symptoms are similar to those of
heart attack, appendicitis, ulcers, irritable
bowel syndrome, hiatal hernia, pancreatitis, and
hepatitis. So accurate diagnosis is important.
Article provided
by the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
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