Gallstone Cholesterol Content

CPT CODE:

  • 84311

USEFUL FOR:

This assay provides information on the cholesterol content of thegall stones.This test can aid the physician in designing a strategy for management of the patient's problem when cholecystectomy would be problematic.

SPECIMEN REQUIRED:

Entire gallstone specimen. Rinse with distilled or demineralized water, and ship stone in securely-capped vial.Note:    1. Specimen source is required on request form for                      processing.  2. Indicate patient's age and sex on request form.

TRANSPORT TEMPERATURE:

Ambient\Refrig OK\Frozen OK

CLINICAL INFORMATION:

Most gallstones are soft, flesh colored, and consist of a high percentageof cholesterol.  Formation of gallstones is the result of the gallbladderbreaking down the molecular complex between bile salts andcholesterol.  At this point, the cholesterol deposits about somemicroscopic nidus to form gallstones. 

CLINICAL INTERPRETATION:

The presence of a high percentage of cholesterol in the gallstonesuggests the process by which the gallstone is formed.

REFERENCE VALUES:

Not applicable