Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026

Bile Duct Ligation in Mice: Induction of Inflammatory Liver Injury and Fibrosis by Obstructive Cholestasis
Published on: February 10, 2015
Milk of calcium bile. Evidence that gallbladder stasis is a key factor
Abstract:
Milk of calcium bile is a rare disorder in which the gallbladder lumen is filled with a semisolid radiopaque material composed primarily of calcium carbonate. The etiology is unknown, although gallbladder stasis is believed to be a prerequisite. We report a case of milk of calcium bile in which preexisting gallbladder stasis was retrospectively evaluated by reviewing plain abdominal films and by using iodide as a marker for retained contrast. This latter approach was validated by demonstrating that obstructed gallbladders do not physiologically sequester iodide and that following oral cholecystography functioning gallbladders do not retain significant iodide for prolonged periods. In the case described, we propose that gallbladder stasis was present as long as 2 1/2 years prior to the diagnosis of milk of calcium bile.
Related Concept Videos
Bile
Bile is released when dietary fats enter...
Gallbladder
The gallbladder's anatomy consists of three regions: the fundus, body, and neck. Extending from the neck, the cystic duct joins the common...
Diseases of the Liver and Gallbladder
Cirrhosis is characterized by the scarring of hepatic lobules in the liver, which are replaced by fibrous tissue, affecting the liver's normal functioning. NAFLD, on the other hand, is caused by an excessive build-up of fat in the liver, not related to...
Acute Pancreatitis II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Cholecystitis
Chronic Pancreatitis II: Pathophysiology

