## Overview Cholelithiasis is the formation of stones (usually calcium bilirubinate) within the biliary tree of the horse. Stones may be incidental or may obstruct bile flow, producing cholangiohepatitis, colic, fever, and jaundice. Middle-aged horses are most often affected. ## Causes The exact cause is unknown. Biliary stasis, ascending infection, and changes in bile composition are proposed. Foreign material or parasites can act as a nidus. ## Diagnosis Ultrasound frequently visualizes the stones and dilated ducts. Clinical pathology shows biliary stasis. Biopsy and culture evaluate concurrent cholangiohepatitis. ## Treatment Antimicrobials for associated infection, and surgical or lithotripsy removal of obstructing stones when feasible. Prognosis depends on the degree of liver damage. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded when obstruction and significant hepatitis are present. Incidental stones found without clinical signs may require only monitoring. ## Prevention None specific.
intermittent colic; fever; jaundice; weight loss; depression; ultrasound evidence of biliary stones
## Overview Cholelithiasis is the formation of stones (usually calcium bilirubinate) within the biliary tree of the horse. Stones may be incidental or may obstruct bile flow, producing cholangiohepatitis, colic, fever, and jaundice. Middle-aged horses are most often affected. ## Causes The exact cause is unknown. Biliary stasis, ascending infection, and changes in bile composition are proposed. Foreign material or parasites can act as a nidus. ## Diagnosis Ultrasound frequently visualizes the stones and dilated ducts. Clinical pathology shows biliary stasis. Biopsy and culture evaluate concurrent cholangiohepatitis. ## Treatment Antimicrobials for associated infection, and surgical or lithotripsy removal of obstructing stones when feasible. Prognosis depends on the degree of liver damage. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded when obstruction and significant hepatitis are present. Incidental stones found without clinical signs may require only monitoring. ## Prevention None specific.
intermittent colic; fever; jaundice; weight loss; depression; ultrasound evidence of biliary stones