Biliary Lithiasis: Prevalence and Ultrasound Profile in a Service Hospital.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Radiology
• Hepatobiliary Medicine

Background:

• Gallstones (biliary lithiasis) are a common condition with varying prevalence worldwide.
• Understanding the demographics, clinical presentation, and characteristics of gallstones is crucial for effective patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence and epidemiological characteristics of biliary lithiasis in a large patient cohort.
• To analyze the presenting symptoms, associated conditions, and stone characteristics in patients diagnosed with gallstones.

Main Methods:

• Real-time gray scale ultrasonography of the upper abdomen was performed on 1237 patients.
• Data collected included patient demographics, indications for ultrasound, and ultrasonographic findings of gallstones.

Main Results:

• The overall prevalence of biliary lithiasis was 11.56%, with a female-to-male ratio of 4:1.
• Prevalence was higher in women under 50 (6.5:1 ratio) and 88.8% of cases were under 60.
• Gallbladder dyspepsia (61.5%) and right upper quadrant pain (41%) were the most common symptoms; 18% presented with acute abdomen.
• Asymptomatic gallstones were found in 17.5% of cases.
• Multiple calculi were more common than solitary stones (1:4 ratio), with small-sized stones (2-4 mm) being the most frequent.

Conclusions:

• Biliary lithiasis is a prevalent condition, predominantly affecting middle-aged women.
• Clinical presentation varies, ranging from dyspepsia to acute abdomen, with a significant proportion of asymptomatic cases.
• Ultrasonography is an effective tool for diagnosing gallstones, characterizing their number, and size distribution.