Risk Factors and Pathogenesis of Cholesterol Gallstones: State of the Art

Amigo, Ludwid; Zanlungo Matsuhiro, Silvana; Mendoza Vilches, Hegaly Lenny; Miquel P., Juan Francisco; Nervi, Flavio

Risk Factors and Pathogenesis of Cholesterol Gallstones: State of the Art

Date

1999

Authors

Amigo, Ludwid

Zanlungo Matsuhiro, Silvana

Mendoza Vilches, Hegaly Lenny

Miquel P., Juan Francisco

Nervi, Flavio

Abstract

The aim of this article is to present an update of selected aspects of the pathogenesis and risk factors of cholesterol gallstones, a highly prevalent Western disease. The etiology of cholesterol cholelithiasis is considered to be multifactorial, with interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Mechanisms of cholesterol lithogenesis include biliary cholesterol hypersecretion, supersaturation and crystallization, stone formation and growth, and bile stasis within the gallbladder. Each of these various steps could be under genetic control and/or be influenced through intermediate pathogenic steps linked to a variety of environmental factors.

Keywords

Etiology, Gallstones, Pathophysiolog, Risk factors

Citation

Amigo Ludwid, Zanlungo Silvana, Mensoza Hegaly, Miquel Juan Francisco, Nervi F. Risk Factors and Pathogenesis of Cholesterol Gallstones: State of the Art. European Review For Medical And Pharmacological Sciences. 1999;3:241-246.