BILIARY SLUDGE Meaning and
Definition
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Biliary sludge refers to a thick, gel-like substance that forms in the gallbladder or bile ducts. It is composed of a mixture of various substances such as cholesterol crystals, calcium salts, and other particles. Bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, normally helps in the breakdown and digestion of fats. However, certain conditions can lead to the formation of biliary sludge, causing disturbances in the normal flow of bile.
Biliary sludge may be asymptomatic and go unnoticed in many cases. However, it may also cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting. If left untreated, it can lead to more severe conditions such as gallstones or obstructive jaundice.
Certain risk factors can contribute to the development of biliary sludge, including obesity, rapid weight loss, pregnancy, certain medications, and certain medical conditions such as liver disease or rapid weight loss. Gallbladder stasis, a condition where bile flow is slow or stagnant, can also contribute to sludge formation.
Diagnosis of biliary sludge is typically done through imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP). Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding rapid weight loss, as well as medication to dissolve the sludge or surgical interventions like gallbladder removal if necessary.
In summary, biliary sludge is a gel-like substance that forms in the gallbladder or bile ducts, predominantly composed of cholesterol crystals and other particles. It can cause symptoms and may require medical intervention depending on its severity and associated complications.
Common Misspellings for BILIARY SLUDGE
- viliary sludge
- niliary sludge
- hiliary sludge
- giliary sludge
- buliary sludge
- bjliary sludge
- bkliary sludge
- boliary sludge
- b9liary sludge
- b8liary sludge
- bikiary sludge
- bipiary sludge
- bioiary sludge
- biluary sludge
- biljary sludge
- bilkary sludge
- biloary sludge
- bil9ary sludge
- bil8ary sludge
- bilizry sludge
Etymology of BILIARY SLUDGE
The word "biliary" comes from the Latin word "bilis", meaning "bile". "Bile" refers to the digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, which helps in the digestion and absorption of fats. The term "sludge" refers to a thick, mud-like substance. Therefore, "biliary sludge" is used to describe a thick, gel-like mixture that forms in the bile ducts or gallbladder due to the precipitation of cholesterol, calcium salts, or bilirubin.
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