What is the result of a transient cystic duct blockage from an impacted stone?

Prepare for your NCCAOM Biomedicine Board Exam. Study with real-world questions and detailed explanations. Boost your confidence and pass the test!

A transient cystic duct blockage from an impacted stone leads to biliary colic. Biliary colic is characterized by episodes of severe pain due to spasm of the gallbladder as it attempts to contract against the obstruction. When a stone temporarily blocks the cystic duct, bile accumulation occurs in the gallbladder, leading to increased pressure and pain, which is experienced as biliary colic.

In this scenario, the obstruction is not chronic, so the inflammation or infection of the gallbladder associated with cholecystitis does not take place. Rather, the pain arises suddenly and resolves when the blockage releases, hence falling under the category of biliary colic rather than a more severe condition.

Other conditions listed, such as acute pancreatitis, are caused by different mechanisms (for example, involving the pancreatic duct), while gastritis pertains to inflammation of the stomach lining and is unrelated to biliary issues. Thus, the result of a transient blockage is specifically the pain associated with biliary colic.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy