Whats The Difference Between Calcified And Noncalcified Gallstones ?

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There are two kinds of gallstones, which are often taken as similar to each other though there are several differences between these two. They are the calcified gallstones and the noncalcified Gallstones. As far as the calcified gallstones are concerned, they are actually an example that describes a concentration pattern of various calcifications. The concretions are known to occur in hollow structures and characteristically, they are known to have smooth sharp margins. They are most likely to be either round or oval in shape. They also match with the organ shape, wherein they are known to reside.

The outer appearance of these gallstones is quite varied. There are cases where there may be several smaller calcifications that move freely in the gallbladder. Only a single, very large or medium sized, stone may also occur in these cases. The patterns may either be slightly laminated or even their stony surface might have a very thin calcification rim. But, the calcified gall stones must not be confused with renal calculi, which usually remain located near the spine. Other formations that may look very similar to the calcified gallstones include hepatic granulomas, calcified lymphatic nodes, and appendicoliths. The correct diagnosis of calcified gallstones can be done by confirming their presence using ultrasound, CT, and Biliary section examination.

Non-calcified gallstones, on the other hand, differ completely in composition from the calcified ones. Unlike the calcified ones, non-calcified gallstones are made up of large amounts of hardened cholesterol. These gallstones, containing a very high cholesterol percentage in the makeup, are often called the ‘Floating stones’ or ‘Floaters’. These gallstones can be easily dissolved by administering Ursodiol. Calcified gallstones, however, cannot be dissolved using the same medicine. In contrast, they can only be removed surgically by a process called cholecystectomy. Moreover, the frequency of occurrence of the non-calcified stones (80 percent) is much higher than that of the calcified ones (20 percent). Being made of cholesterol, they appear yellowish-green in color and can easily be distinguished from the calcified ones.

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Can You Live With Gallstones ?

Gallstones are a kind of ailment that is related to the gallbladder and is now one of the most common diseases especially among men. It is most likely to develop among the people who are overweight as well as middle aged people rather than anyone else. This is amongst the diseases that are known to affect majority of the people. Gallbladder is meant for storage of bile, and, thus, helps indigestion. This can be treated by the gallbladder surgery that are most often taken up by the people. More..