Management of gallstones in an outpatient who is currently asymptomatic*

* Refer to UpToDate topics on the management of gallstones for a discussion of gallstone management in patients with active hemolytic disorders.
¶ Risk factors for gallbladder cancer include anomalous pancreatic ductal drainage, gallbladder adenomas, large gallstones (particularly >3 cm), and porcelain gallbladder.
Δ Typical biliary colic is an intense, dull pain that is located in the right upper quadrant or epigastric area. It is often associated with diaphoresis, nausea, and vomiting, and lasts between 30 minutes and 6 hours (typically plateauing within an hour). Atypical symptoms include dyspepsia, nausea or vomiting without typical biliary pain, chest pain, nonspecific abdominal pain, and bloating.
◊ Refer to UpToDate topics on the nonsurgical treatment of gallstones.