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Cholecystitis Health Channel

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Acute cholecystitis (Gallstones)

Definition

Acute cholecystitis is a sudden inflammation of the gallbladder that causes severe abdominal pain.

Alternative Names

Cholecystitis - acute

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

In 90% of cases, acute cholecystitis is caused by gallstones in the gallbladder. Severe illness, alcohol abuse and, rarely, tumors of the gallbladder may also cause cholecystitis.

Acute cholecystitis causes bile to become trapped in the gallbladder. The build up of bile causes irritation and pressure in the gallbladder. This can lead to bacterial infection and perforation of the organ.

Gallstones occur more frequently in women than men. Gallstones become more common with age in both sexes. Native Americans have a higher rate of gallstones.

Symptoms

The main symptom is abdominal pain -- particularly after a fatty meal -- that is located on the upper right side of the abdomen. Occasionally, nausea and vomiting or fever may occur.

Signs and tests

A doctor's examination of the abdomen by touch (palpation) may reveal tenderness.

Tests that detect the presence of gallstones or inflammation include:

Treatment

Although cholecystitis may clear up on its own, surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) is usually needed when inflammation continues or recurs.

This operation is done as soon as possible, unless the patient is very ill or if the inflammation is thought to have been present for many days.

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Chronic cholecystitis (4 images) (Doctor-Reviewed information)
Chronic cholecystitis is long-standing swelling and irritation of the gallbladder. Reviewer: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.Date: 10/13/2006

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