Insights into pigment stone disease
Trotman, B.W.
Journal of Laboratory and Clinical Medicine 93(3): 349-352
1979
ISSN/ISBN: 0022-2143 PMID: 429845 Document Number: 152185
Pathogenesis of cholelithiasis associated with chronic hemolysis, cirrhosis and bacterial infection is discussed with emphasis on elderly and Oriental patients. A defect in unconjugated bilirubin solubility may aid in formation of cholesterol, bile pigment-calcium and pure pigment stones. Low concentrations of bile acids in cirrhotics and increased .beta.-glucuronidase activity in cholangitis infections are proposed to contribute to altered unconjugated bilirubin solubility.