How Do You Spell BILIARY CALCULUS?

1. A biliary calculus, commonly known as a gallstone, refers to a hard, crystal-like deposit that forms in the gallbladder or bile ducts. It is a solid formation composed of cholesterol, bilirubin, calcium salts, and other substances found in bile. Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, which helps in the breakdown and absorption of fats.

   The formation of gallstones is mainly attributed to an imbalance in the components of bile. When the bile contains an excess of cholesterol or bilirubin, it can lead to the precipitation and hardening of these substances, forming gallstones. These stones can vary in size, ranging from small grains to larger masses that can block the bile ducts.

   Biliary calculi often remain asymptomatic for a long time, with some individuals never experiencing any symptoms or complications. However, when the gallstones obstruct the bile ducts, it can cause various symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, and fever. Such blockages can be severe and require immediate medical attention.

   The treatment of biliary calculus typically involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, medications, and surgical procedures. In mild cases, dietary changes and medications can help dissolve the gallstones or alleviate symptoms. However, in more severe cases, surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) is often necessary to prevent further complications and alleviate symptoms.

   In summary, a biliary calculus refers to a solid deposit that forms in the gallbladder or bile ducts due to an imbalance in the components of bile. It can cause symptoms and complications when it obstructs the bile ducts and may require medical intervention or surgery for treatment.

2. Gallstone, a concretion, chiefly of cholesterin, formed in a bile duct or the gallbladder.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for BILIARY CALCULUS

The word "biliary" is derived from the Latin word "bilis" meaning "bile". Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, which helps in the digestion of fats. The suffix "-ary" in "biliary" indicates "pertaining to" or "related to".

The word "calculus" has its origins in the Latin word "calculus" meaning "pebble" or "small stone". In medical terminology, "calculus" refers to an abnormal mass or stone-like formation that may occur in various parts of the body.

Therefore, the term "biliary calculus" refers to a stone or abnormal mass that forms in the biliary system, particularly in the gallbladder or bile ducts. Biliary calculi are commonly known as gallstones, which can cause pain and obstruction in the bile ducts.