From: Gallstones top to toe: what the radiologist needs to know
Risk factors for gallstone formation | Comment |
---|---|
Age | The incidence increases with age but symptomatic presentation is most common in middle age. |
Gender | More common in females by a ratio of 2:1. |
Race | More common in Western, Caucasian, Hispanic and Native American populations. |
Family history | A first degree relative with a history of gallstones doubles the risk. |
Obesity | Increased risk of cholesterol stone formation. |
Rapid weight loss | Bile stasis due to reduced calorie intake and increased cholesterol mobilisation. |
Haemolysis | There is an increased incidence of associated with haemolytic disorders such as sickle cell disease and the thalassemias. |
Oral contraceptives and oestrogen replacement therapy | Â |
Pregnancy | Â |
Raised serum lipids | Increased risk of cholesterol stone formation. |
Raised serum bilirubin | Increased risk of pigmented stone formation. |
Cirrhosis | Â |
Gallbladder stasis | Stasis of flow allows stones time to form. |
Diabetes mellitus | Insulin resistance increases circulating cholesterol. |
Crohn’s disease |  |
Certain medications | Â |