Types of Gallstones
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Cholesterol Gallstones
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Cholesterol gallstones are the most common type of gallstones. These yellow gallstones consist primarily of undissolved cholesterol.
Black Pigment Gallstones
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Black pigment gallstones form when the bile contains an excess of bilirubin, a pigment in blood that passes through the liver. The bilirubin combines with calcium to form black gallstones.
Brown Pigment Gallstones
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Brown pigment gallstones form when bacteria alters the bilirubin in the gallbladder. The altered bilirubin then combines with calcium and fats to form dark brown gallstones.
Ceftriaxone Gallstones
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Patients taking the ceftriaxone antiobiotic occasionally form gallstones. The medication combines with calcium in bile to develop hard deposits.
Risk Factors
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Individuals with diabetes and cirrhosis are more likely to have stones form in their gallbladders. Gallstones are also more common in Native Americans, females and individuals older than 40.
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