Türkiye Jeoloji Bülteni

Physical, Chemical and Mineralogical Properties of Gallstones obtained from Antalya Province of Turkey

Abstract: Gallbladder stone disease is the most common disease with a high prevalence in many societies in theword. In the literature, the primary risk factors discussed for this disease have been evaluated as gaining and losingweight rapidly, obesity, age, gender, genetic factors, having given birth too many children, life style and medications.The aim of this investigation is to find out the chemical and physical properties of gallstones in patients living inthe province of Antalya, Turkey. For this purpose, the chemical and mineralogical properties of 1243 gallstonesamples from 69 patients were analyzed using X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM)and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) applications.In accordance with the outcome of SEM and FTIR analysis, cholesterol, calcium carbonate, calcium bilirubinate,calcium phosphate, carbonate apatite, and protein contents were observed. Cholesterol was detected in 95% of 69patients; with 44 samples obtained from female patients. X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD) analysis showed newberyite,struvite, and aragonite minerals were found in the composition of gallstones. Newberyite was present in 59% ofthe samples. The physical, chemical and mineralogical characteristics of these gallstones are very important for theunderstanding of gallstone formation. The results of the study are consistent with the 5F Rule (Female, Forty, Fatty,Fair, Fertile). The relationship between bilirubinate and the presence of bacteria was determined. The presence ofbarium acetate and aluminum silicate in gallstones revealed the relationship with environmental pollutants.