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Gallstone disease in an elderly population: the Silea study.
F Lirussi1, G Nassuato, D Passera
1Institute of Internal Medicine, University of Padua, Italy.
European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology
|February 7, 2001
Summary
Gallstone disease is highly prevalent in the elderly, particularly women. Gallbladder function and gallstone characteristics in older adults are similar to middle-aged populations, with advanced age linked to calcified stones.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
Background:
- Limited understanding of gallbladder emptying and gallstone composition in the elderly.
- Cross-sectional survey to investigate gallstone disease prevalence and related factors in individuals aged 60 and above.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of gallstone disease in the elderly population.
- To analyze gallstone characteristics, including composition and pattern.
- To assess gallbladder motor function in elderly individuals with and without gallstones.
Main Methods:
- Ultrasound used to assess gallstone number, size, and gallbladder motor function.
- Conventional radiology and computed tomography (CT) with Hounsfield units (HU) employed for gallstone composition and pattern evaluation.
Main Results:
- Gallstone disease prevalence was 26.7% in individuals aged 60+, higher in women. Most gallstones were small, multiple, and asymptomatic.
- Diabetes mellitus was associated with cholelithiasis in women. Gallbladder fasting volumes were larger in gallstone carriers.
- Calcified gallstones were common, with various patterns identified by radiology and CT.
Conclusions:
- Gallstone disease is common in the elderly, especially women, but gallbladder function and gallstone characteristics are similar to middle-aged populations.
- Advanced age is associated with a higher incidence of calcified gallstones, likely pigment stones.