Gallstones
Gallstones are very common. They are found in 11 - 36% of people in their 80s. The prevalence increases with age. Twice as many women have gallstones compared to men. Not all gallstones will cause problems (10-30% cause symptoms). Gallstones are made up mainly of cholesterol and bile pigments. Other substances that may be present include calcium carbonate, phosphate and palmitate. 80% of gallstones are 'mixed' stones. 20% are pure cholesterol or pure pigment stones.
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| Cholesterol stone | Pigment stones | Mixed stone |