Objective To study the etiology of primary intrahepatic stones. MethodsThe literatures in the recent years on the etiology of intrahepatic stone were revieved. Results The formation of intrahepatic stone mainly caused by bacteria infection, parasitic infestation, bile stasis, congenital anatomic abnormalities and immunoreaction of bile tract. Further investigation found that metabolic, low protein diet, environment and ethnic factors and gene mutation were considered to play important roles in the formation of the intrahepatic stone. Conclusion The formation of intrahepatic stone is complex and are result of multiple factors. It closely related to the infection and stasis of the bile duct.