Biliary calculuses, commonly known as gallstones, are small solid deposits that form in the gallbladder. The spelling of this term is complex due to the use of medical terminology and specialized vocabulary. The term is pronounced /ˈbɪliərɪ ˈkælkjʊləsiz/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress on the first syllable of "biliary." It is derived from biliary, meaning related to bile or the gallbladder, and calculus, meaning a mass or concretion. This spelling is important for accurate medical diagnoses and communication between healthcare professionals.
Biliary calculi, also known as gallstones, are small and hard deposits that form in the gallbladder, a small organ located below the liver. These calculi are composed of various substances, such as cholesterol, bile pigments, calcium salts, and proteins. They can range in size from tiny grains to larger stones, and their presence can cause significant health problems.
Biliary calculi can form when there is an imbalance in the components of bile, a fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. When there is an excess of cholesterol or bilirubin (a breakdown product of red blood cells), or if the gallbladder does not empty properly, these substances can crystallize and form stones. Risk factors for developing biliary calculi include obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, a high-fat diet, genetic factors, and certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or liver disease.
In most cases, biliary calculi are asymptomatic and do not cause any problems. However, if a stone becomes lodged in one of the bile ducts, it can lead to a blockage and cause symptoms such as intense abdominal pain (known as biliary colic), nausea, vomiting, and jaundice. Complications can also arise if the blockage persists, leading to inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis) or infection of the bile ducts (cholangitis).
Treatment options for biliary calculi depend on the severity of symptoms and the presence of complications. Non-symptomatic or small stones may not require any treatment. However, if symptoms are present, medications to dissolve the stones or surgical procedures, such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy (removal of the gallbladder), may be recommended. Preventive
The word "biliary" is derived from the Latin word "bilis", which means "bile". Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder.
The term "calculi" is the plural form of "calculus", which comes from the Latin word "calculus" meaning "pebble" or "small stone". In medical terminology, "calculi" refers to abnormal concretion or solid masses formed in various parts of the body, often made up of mineral salts.
Therefore, "biliary calculi" refers to the small stones or pebbles formed within the biliary system, which includes the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts. They are commonly known as gallstones.