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Digestive system
Digestive system
Gallbladder
Gallbladder
Gallbladder
Gallbladder
Gallbladder
Gallbladder
Gallbladder anatomy
Gallbladder anatomy


Gallbladder disease

Definition:

Gall bladder disease includes inflammation, infection, stones, or obstruction of the gallbladder.



Alternative Names:
Biliary disease; Gallbladder attack; Biliary colic

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The gallbladder is a sac located under the liver. It stores and concentrates bile produced in the liver. Bile aids in the digestion of fats, and is released from the gallbladder into the upper small intestine (duodenum) in response to food (especially fats). Conditions which slow or obstruct the flow of bile out of the gallbladder result in gallbladder disease.

Types of gallbladder disease include:




Review Date: 5/4/2006
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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