Cholezystitis
Cholecystitis is an inflammation of the gallbladder. It most commonly refers to acute calculous cholecystitis, where obstruction of the cystic duct by gallstones leads to gallbladder inflammation, though acalculous cholecystitis can occur in critically ill patients without stones. Chronic cholecystitis results from repeated bouts of inflammation and fibrosis.
Etiology and pathophysiology: The typical sequence starts with obstruction of the cystic duct by a gallstone.
Clinical features: Acute cholecystitis presents with sudden, severe right upper quadrant or epigastric pain that may
Diagnosis: Ultrasound is the first-line test, showing gallstones, gallbladder wall thickening, pericholecystic fluid, and sometimes a
Treatment: Initial management includes hospitalization, nil per os, IV fluids, and broad-spectrum antibiotics targeting enteric organisms.
Prognosis and complications: Prompt treatment reduces risk of complications such as gallbladder gangrene, perforation, empyema, fistula