Are intrahepatic bile duct stones serious?
Dec 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, the seriousness of intrahepatic bile duct stones depends on the specific circumstances. If the patient has no discomfort or symptoms, it is usually not a serious concern; however, if symptoms are present, it may be significant. Intrahepatic bile duct stones refer to stones located in the branches of the bile ducts above the confluence of the left and right hepatic ducts. If a patient experiences any symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention at a hospital promptly to avoid delaying treatment.
In general, whether intrahepatic bile duct stones are serious depends on the specific circumstances. If the patient has no discomfort symptoms, it is usually not serious; however, if symptoms are present, it may be serious. The detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Not serious
Intrahepatic bile duct stones refer to stones located in the branches of the left and right hepatic ducts above the confluence. Some intrahepatic bile duct stones may cause no symptoms at all, and in such cases, they are generally not serious and do not require special treatment. Additionally, some patients may experience only mild discomfort, such as dull pain or a sense of unease, which often resolves spontaneously—this situation is also considered not serious.
2. Serious
It should be noted that if intrahepatic bile duct stones obstruct the bile ducts, they may lead to symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, and could even cause cholangitis or bile duct rupture. They may also result in biliary tract infections, presenting with fever, chills, and general malaise. In these cases, the condition is serious and requires urgent medical treatment.
If a patient develops any symptoms, prompt medical evaluation at a hospital is recommended to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
