What condition generally follows the progression of biliary colic if left untreated?

Biliary colic is characterized by intermittent episodes of pain due to gallstones temporarily obstructing the cystic duct, leading to distension of the gallbladder. If this condition is left untreated, the obstruction can precipitate cholecystitis, which is the inflammation of the gallbladder.

Cholecystitis typically occurs when gallstones cause sustained obstruction, allowing bile to accumulate and become infected or inflamed. This can lead to more severe symptoms, including fever, persistent abdominal pain, and signs of systemic infection.

Understanding this progression is crucial as it highlights the importance of timely intervention in cases of biliary colic to prevent complications. In contrast, while cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure often performed in response to cholecystitis or gallstone-related issues, it is not a condition that results from untreated biliary colic. Cholangitis, involving infection of the bile duct, and pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas usually due to gallstones among other factors, can occur later as complications but are not a direct progression from biliary colic itself.