Choledocholithiasis is the presence of a gallstone in the common bile duct. The stone may consist of bile pigments or calcium and cholesterol salts.

Gallstone in the bile duct; Bile duct stone

About 15% of people with gallstones will develop stones in the common bile duct, the small tube that carries bile from the gallbladder to the intestine.

Risk factors include a previous medical history of gallstones. However, choledocholithiasis can occur in people who have had their gallbladder removed.

Images

Bile pathway

Prostate

Choledocholithiasis

Gallbladder

Kidney cyst with gallstones, CT scan

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Choledocholithiasis Symptoms

Review Date: 06/03/2008
Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)