MEAN SERUM CALCIUM AND LIPID PROFILES IN SYMPTOMATIC GALLSTONE DISEASE

Abstract

Background: Gallstone disease remains a prevalent gastrointestinal condition with varying regional and metabolic associations. Differences in dietary patterns, genetics, and environmental exposures contribute to the geographic variation in gallstone prevalence and related biochemical abnormalities. Despite global research, limited data exists regarding lipid and calcium profiles among gallstone patients in local populations. Understanding these associations in a specific population is essential for guiding early screening, risk stratification, and preventive strategies in clinical practice.

Objective: To determine the frequency of deranged lipid profile in patients with symptomatic gallstone disease and to evaluate mean serum levels of calcium, triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Surgery, Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar, from April 23, 2024, to October 22, 2024. A total of 149 patients aged 18 to 60 years with symptomatic gallstones confirmed by ultrasound were enrolled through consecutive non-probability sampling. Patients with comorbidities or on interfering medications were excluded. After informed consent, fasting blood samples were collected to measure serum calcium and lipid profiles. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0.

Results: The mean age of participants was 50.81 ± 5.08 years, with 123 patients (82.6%) above 40 years and 79 females (53.0%). Deranged lipid profile was identified in 68 patients (45.6%). Among these, the mean serum calcium level was 8.26 ± 0.81 mg/dl, total cholesterol 233.95 ± 23.53 mg/dl, triglycerides 169.06 ± 17.06 mg/dl, LDL 111.44 ± 13.50 mg/dl, and HDL 39.01 ± 5.39 mg/dl.

Conclusion: A considerable proportion of patients with symptomatic gallstones demonstrated dyslipidemia and elevated serum calcium levels. These findings emphasize the role of metabolic assessment in the clinical evaluation of gallstone disease.