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Updated: May 4, 2026

Bile Salt-induced Biofilm Formation in Enteric Pathogens: Techniques for Identification and Quantification
Published on: May 6, 2018
[The frequency of bacteria in human gallstones]
Bernadett Lévay1, Györgyi Szabó2, Attila Szijártó3
1Országos Onkológiai Intézet Fej-Nyaki Daganatok Multidiszciplináris Központ 1124 Budapest Ráth György u. 7-9.
Introduction:
Complications caused by lost gallstones within the abdominal cavity are well known. Abscesses, perforation of the gastro-intestinal tract were all described in the literature, but gallstones were found in hernial sac, or even in sputum after it penetrated through the diaphragm into the respiratory tract. These complications can develop between several weeks to several years postoperatively. Most complications can be treated surgically only.
Materials And Methods:
Fifty gallstones and bile samples were collected from 50 patients who underwent cholecystectomy (36 female / 14 male, avarge age: 60.8 ± 6.8 years). All samples were sent for microbiological examination.
Results:
bacterial colonization of the gallstone and the bile were found in 16 cases. Four of them showed acute inflammation in the gallbladder while pathological signs of chronic inflammation in the gallbladder wall were detected in eight cases. Empyema was found in four cases. Bacteria from enteral origin (Esherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Enterobacter cloacae) was detected in 13 cases, while non-enteral (Klebsiella penumoniae, Streptococcus alfa-haemoliticus) colony were detected in three cases. Positive bacterial cultures were identified in twelve female and fourmale patients.
Conclusions:
Different types of bacteria can be found in the gallstones, which may cause various complications.
Insights
Bacterial colonization of gallstones and bile was identified in 16 patients, with enteral bacteria being most common. This highlights the risk of gallstones causing post-cholecystectomy complications.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Microbiology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Lost gallstones in the abdominal cavity can lead to severe complications like abscesses and gastrointestinal perforation.
- These complications, including gallstones in unusual locations (hernias, respiratory tract), can manifest years after surgery and often require surgical intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the microbiological profile of gallstones and bile samples post-cholecystectomy.
- To identify the types of bacteria colonizing gallstones and their potential association with gallbladder inflammation.
Main Methods:
- Collected 50 gallstones and bile samples from 50 patients undergoing cholecystectomy.
- Performed microbiological examination on all collected samples.
Main Results:
- Bacterial colonization was found in 16 cases (32%).
- Enteral bacteria (e.g., E. coli, E. faecalis) were identified in 13 cases, while non-enteral bacteria were found in 3 cases.
- Inflammatory signs (acute and chronic) were observed in the gallbladder of several patients with bacterial colonization.
Conclusions:
- Gallstones harbor diverse bacterial species, increasing the risk of post-operative complications.
- Microbiological analysis of gallstones is crucial for understanding and managing potential complications.
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