BILIRUBINATE GRANULES - MAIN PATHOLOGICAL BILE COMPONENT IN PATIENTS WITH IDIOPATHIC ACUTE-PANCREATITIS

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the main pathologic c omponent of bile obtained by biliary drainage in patients with acute i diopathic pancreatitis and therapeutic implications. Method: Eighteen patients diagnosed with idiopathic acute pancreatitis underwent biliar y drainage. Microscopic evaluation of bile was performed and pathologi c components were classified in cholesterol microcrystals, bilirubinat e granules, and calcium microspherolites. Results: Five patients showe d no abnormalities. In 11 patients, bilirubinate granules were found, cholesterol microcrystals in two, and Giardia lamblia in two. Conclusi on: Bilirubinate granules are the main pathologic component of bile in patients with acute idiopathic pancreatitis. Cholecystectomy is the p referred therapeutic approach. (C) 1998 by Am. Coll. of Gastroenterolo gy.