Question

Type of cholesterol present in gallstones?

• A. Amorphous cholesterol monohydrate
• B. Amorphous cholesterol dihydrate
• C. Crystalline Cholesterol dihydrate
• D. Crystalline cholesterol monohydrate

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

In pathology, the type of cholesterol present in gallstones is a crucial detail for understanding their composition. Gallstones can be composed of various substances, but those primarily made of cholesterol are particularly common.

Cholesterol Gallstones: These stones primarily consist of cholesterol, and their structural form is important for accurate classification and treatment strategies. 

Forms of Cholesterol in Gallstones:

• Amorphous Cholesterol Monohydrate: Lacks a defined, repeated structure.
• Amorphous Cholesterol Dihydrate: Similar to the monohydrate but with additional water molecules, still lacking a defining crystalline structure.
• Crystalline Cholesterol Dihydrate: Contains water molecules in a crystalline form.
• Crystalline Cholesterol Monohydrate (Correct Option): This is the typical form found in cholesterol gallstones, characterized by a defined crystalline structure with one water molecule per cholesterol molecule.

 

The correct form commonly present in gallstones is Crystalline Cholesterol Monohydrate. This variant is structured with a repeating, orderly arrangement, making it identifiable using various diagnostic techniques.