Significance of family history of cholelithiasis in a Pakistani population: A single center, descriptive cross-sectional study

Medicine (Baltimore). 2024 Jul 12;103(28):e38925. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000038925.

Abstract

Linkage studies have indicated a potential genetic predisposition to cholelithiasis. This study aims to determine the frequency of positive family history of gallstone disease in patients presenting with gallstones in a Pakistani population. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at the surgical department of the University of Lahore Teaching Hospital from June 30, 2023 to August 30, 2023. A total of 102 radiologically confirmed cholelithiasis patients were enrolled. Out of 102 participants, 75.5% (n = 77) were females, with a mean age at presentation of 42.1 ± 12.1 years. The study found that 32.4% (n = 33) of participants had a single family member with gallstones, 3.9% (n = 4) had 2 family members affected, and 1% (n = 1) had 3 family members affected. The attributable risk of genetics from our study was 37.2%. Additionally, there was no significant association between positive family history and earlier onset of disease. A significant percentage of Pakistani population may have gallstone disease due to genetic factors.

Publication types

  • Observational Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cholelithiasis* / epidemiology
  • Cholelithiasis* / genetics
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Gallstones / epidemiology
  • Gallstones / genetics
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Medical History Taking
  • Middle Aged
  • Pakistan / epidemiology