DefinitionGallbladder disease includes inflammation, infection, stones, or blockage (obstruction) of the gallbladder.Alternative NamesBiliary diseaseCauses, incidence, and risk factorsThe gallbladder is a sac located under the liver. It stores and concentrates bile produced in the liver. Bile aids in the digestion of fat, and is released from the gallbladder into the upper small intestine (duodenum) in response to food (especially fats).Types of gallbladder disease include:Cholecystitis(inflammation of the gallbladder)Gallstones (cholelithiasis)Chronic acalculous gallbladder disease (in which the natural movements needed to empty the gallbladder do not work well)Gangrene or abscessesGrowths of tissue (polyps) in the gallbladderDefects of the gallbladder that are present at birth (congenita