[Lithiasis of the extrahepatic bile ducts]

This is a literature survey on issues relating to average incidence rate of choledocholithiasis for the last few years, basic mechanisms and factors underlying the formation of biliary calculi, as well as form and location of the concrements, with a special reference to the impact of the latter on the course run by the disease. Choledocholithiasis is divided in two forms--primary and secondary: in the former the underlying causes and criteria for the occurrence of calculi are described, and in the latter--the factors and conditions promoting migration of the concrements towards the bile ducts, with emphasis on the importance of the division suggested in choledocholithiasis treatment. The clinical picture with its characteristic symptoms, and the pathogenesis of the latter are also discussed. Evolution of the disease left without adequate intervention has unfavourable prognosis. A description is submitted of the various complications and their characteristic manifestations observed. Differential diagnosis is made both often and rarely met with diseases presenting similar symptomatology.