Cholesterol Gallstones : Composition

Cholesterol Gallstones: Chemical analysis of gallstones is not necessary for routine clinical care and is done only in research settings. Gallstones composed predominantly of cholesterol (almost 80%) are radiolucent. About 10% to 20% of cholesterol stones have sufficient calcium carbonate that makes them visible on plain radiographs.

The photograph shows numerous small, yellow, faceted cholesterol gallstones.