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Published on: November 25, 2025
Bacteriological and electron microscopic examination of primary intrahepatic stones
Shuo-Dong Wu1, Hong Yu, Ji-Mei Sun
1Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital (Shengjing Hospital), China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China. wushuodong@hotmail.com
Background:
Primary intrahepatic cholelithiasis is usually combined with biliary tract infection. This research was undertaken to investigate the relationship between intrahepatic stones and biliary tract infection.
Methods:
Thirty-five bile samples and 30 stones specimens were cultured for bacteria and 12 stones specimens were examined with a scan electron microscope (SEM) or a transmission electron microscope (TEM).
Result:
94.2% bile samples and 96.7% stones specimens were positive in bacteria culture. Bacteria were found in stones under SEM and TEM.
Conclusion:
Bacteria in stones are associated with the infection of the biliary tract.
Insights
Intrahepatic stones are frequently linked to biliary tract infections. This study found bacteria within the stones, confirming their association with infection.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Primary intrahepatic cholelithiasis commonly co-occurs with biliary tract infections.
- Investigating the link between intrahepatic stones and biliary tract infection is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the relationship between intrahepatic stones and biliary tract infection.
- To identify the presence of bacteria within intrahepatic stones.
Main Methods:
- Bacterial cultures were performed on 35 bile samples and 30 stone specimens.
- Electron microscopy (SEM/TEM) was used to examine 12 stone specimens for bacteria.
Main Results:
- High rates of bacterial presence were observed: 94.2% of bile samples and 96.7% of stone specimens.
- Bacteria were visually confirmed within the stones using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
Conclusions:
- The presence of bacteria within intrahepatic stones is strongly associated with biliary tract infections.
- This finding supports the role of bacteria in the pathogenesis of intrahepatic cholelithiasis and associated infections.
