Biliary sand

Biliary sand, also known as biliary sludge, is a medical condition characterized by the presence of small particles in the bile that are visible on ultrasound. These particles are a mixture of cholesterol crystals, calcium salts, and other substances. Biliary sand is often asymptomatic but can lead to complications such as gallstones and pancreatitis.

Causes

The exact cause of biliary sand is not known. However, it is believed to be related to changes in the composition of bile, which can occur due to factors such as fasting, rapid weight loss, pregnancy, and certain medications. Biliary sand is more common in women and in individuals over the age of 40.

Symptoms

Biliary sand is often asymptomatic and is usually discovered incidentally during an ultrasound examination for other reasons. However, in some cases, it can cause symptoms similar to those of gallstones, including abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of biliary sand is typically made through an ultrasound examination of the gallbladder. The presence of small particles in the bile that are visible on ultrasound is indicative of biliary sand.

Treatment

The treatment of biliary sand depends on the symptoms and the risk of complications. In asymptomatic cases, no treatment may be necessary. However, in cases where symptoms are present or there is a high risk of complications, treatment options may include medications to dissolve the particles or surgery to remove the gallbladder.

See also

• Gallstones
• Cholecystitis
• Cholelithiasis