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Gall bladder disease includes inflammation, infection, stones, or obstruction of the gallbladder.
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:
Examination of the abdomen by touch (palpation) may reveal tenderness.
Tests that detect the presence of gallstones or inflammation include:
This disease may also alter the results of the following tests:
Treatment depends on the specific type of gallbladder disease.
See the specific type of gallbladder disease.
See the specific type of gallbladder disease.
Call your provider if you develop symptoms of gallbladder disease.
In most cases, prevention is not possible. Weight reduction, and reducing intake of fatty foods, may reduce symptoms in people with gallbladder disease. Use of the medicine ursodiol may shrink gallstones, but it is used only in special cases.
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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