Diagnosing Gallstones

The majority of gallstones (particularly 'silent' stones) are discovered by chance during tests such as ultrasound scans and blood tests carried out for an unrelated condition. However, their discovery should not be a reason for concern, and treatment is only necessary if they start to cause any problems.

If stones are suspected, doctors can perform a number of tests to identify them:

Blood and Urine Tests

These tests may be used to signs of infection inflammation, jaundice or problems with the pancreas.

Ultrasound Scans

This type of scan uses soundwaves (rather than X-rays) to create an image of the internal organs in the abdomen and to pinpoint the location of any stones.

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

A long, flexible lighted viewing instrument (endoscope) is guided gently down the patient's throat, through the stomach and into the small intestine. A radiopaque contrast fluid that is visible on x-rays is then injected into the shared entrance to the bile and pancreatic duct systems, and an image taken. This radiographic image (known as a cholecystogram) enables the doctor to view the ducts directly and will reveal any abnormality in the bile or pancreatic systems, such as bile duct disorders, gallstones, pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer. If a stone is blocking one of the ducts, an instrument may be inserted through the endoscope to try to remove the stone.