Talk:Biliary sludge

Note

In the literature, there is some discrepancy regarding "biliary sludge" and "microlithiasis". Some articles state they are synonymous, whereas others make a clear distinction. One article in 2006 states, "It should be emphasized that microlithiasis and biliary sludge are distinct entities: microlithiasis refers to stones <3 mm in diameter whereas biliary sludge is a viscous suspension of calcium and cholesterol crystals, mucin, glycoproteins, and proteinaceous material." (William B Evans and Peter Draganov. Is empiric cholecystectomy a reasonable treatment option for idiopathic acute pancreatitis? Nature Clinical Practice Gastroenterology & Hepatology (2006) 3, 356-357. doi:10.1038/ncpgasthep0527) This is the opinion that I am more inclined to support.