An interesting issue in gallbladder disease is the involvement of the intestinal flora in stone formation. La intestinal flora is everywhere lately: is involved in the development of diabetes, of cardiovascular disease, Obesity, formation of immunity … If bowel issues so far seems to have involvement, more will in matters so close to the bowel such as gallstones, Huh?
It has long been known that gallstones is common for bacteria, and that the type of bacteria that lives in the gallbladder bile determines the type of stone to be formed. In a recent study we have characterized the bacterial composition of the intestine, bile and stones 29 patients with cholelithiasis and compared with 39 healthy individuals. The study found no significant differences in the presence or absence of certain bacteria may play agent or a protective role in development of gallstones. We will have to determine in the future whether to act on the intestinal flora can modify the appearance of bacteria.
