Abstract
The analysis of crystallization processes of human gallstones was made from a view point of crystal growth from the solution. It was noted that there were at least two stages in the formation of gallstones; (1) nucleation and growth of fine crystals and (2) aggregation of fine crystals. Therefore one can prevent gallstone formation by depressing either "nucleation and growth" of crystals (of cholesterol monohydrate or calcium bilirubinate) or aggregation of fine crystals. Gallstone surfaces and the internal structures were observed with polarizing light, phase microscopy, darkfield illumination and SEM. Analysis of elements was made by an energy dispersive solid state detector (SSD). Growth and dehydration processes of cholesterol monohydrate crystals were studied. Tentative model of aggregation of cholesterol crystals was proposed.
