Evidenzbasierte prävention der cholezystolithiasis

Abstract

Cholesterol cholelithiasis is one of the most common and expensive gastroenterological diseases. Beside common exogenous risk factors, recent molecular genetic studies have identified genetic risk factors for both cholesterol and pigment stone formation. Examples are low phospholipid- associated cholelithiasis due to mutations of the gene encoding the hepatocanalicular phosphatidylcholine transporter, and pigment stones in association with mutations of the ileal bile salt transporter gene. Evidence-based options for primary prevention of cholecystolithiasis include physical activity, slow weigth reduction, regular vitamin C supplementation, and moderate coffee consumption. The ongoing genome projects provide the basis for future epidermiological studies of human gallstone (UTH) genes, which might offer new prospects for individual risk assessement and prevention gallstones.