Etiological and Symptomatic Differences
Cholelithiasis, also known as gallstones, is an inflammatory condition characterized by the hardening of digestive fluids. On the other hand, Cholecystitis is typified by inflammation of the gallbladder due to the blockage of cystic ducts by stones. Although the clinical presentation is similar, specific symptoms can help differentiate the diseases. For example, fever, jaundice, persistent tachycardia, and hypotension indicate or signal the presence of cholelithiasis.
Cholelithiasis and Cholecystitis
A person can have cholelithiasis and cholecystitis at the same time. According to Jones et al. (2019), approximately 95% of acute cholecystitis patients have gallstones. Bile, released through cystic ducts, helps to emulsify fatty foods to promote absorption into the bloodstream. When bile becomes concentrated in the gallbladder, some of its components precipitate to form stones that may block the cystic ducts (cholelithiasis). The blocked cystic ducts will gradually cause the inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis). Therefore, a patient can have cholelithiasis and cholecystitis as comorbidities.
How Cholelithiasis and Cholecystitis Affect the Liver And Pancreas
When stones block the bile duct, the bile flow from the liver to the intestines becomes static. Static bile triggers the growth of bacteria and gas-forming organisms, which can lead to the inflammation of the liver and biliary tree. Gallstone passing through the bile duct can dislodge the ducts, which can increase pressure in the pancreas. The pressure increase, in turn, can lead to pancreatic inflammation or pancreatitis.
Why One Cannot Live Without the Pancreas
The pancreas has dual roles in the body: exocrine and endocrine. The latter helps in blood sugar regulation through insulin production. On the other hand, the exocrine functions help in digestion and metabolism by producing essential digestive enzymes. A malfunctioning pancreas can result in hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia and poor absorption of nutrients. Although patients can live without a pancreas, a substitute organ has to be delivered to perform the roles of a pancreas.
References
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Jones, M. W., Genova, R., & O’Rourke, M. C. (2019). Acute cholecystitis. StatPearls Publishing. Web.
Workeneh, B. T. (2019). Acute kidney injury: Practice essentials, background, & pathophysiology. Medscape. Web.