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Acute Cholecystitis

Sudden inflammation of the gallbladder, usually developing from a gallstone obstructing the cystic duct.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Acute Cholecystitis?

Acute cholecystitis develops in 90-95% of cases when a gallstone obstructs the cystic duct, leading to pressure rise in the gallbladder lumen, wall edema, and inflammation (calculous cholecystitis).

Acalculous (non-calculous) cholecystitis develops due to bile stasis and ischemia in critically ill patients in intensive care, after trauma, major surgery, burns, or those receiving parenteral nutrition, and carries higher mortality.

Diagnosis is established by Murphy's sign, pericholecystic fluid on ultrasound, gallbladder wall thickening (>4 mm), and distension. Severity is graded according to Tokyo Guidelines, which guide treatment planning.

Symptoms

Continuous right upper quadrant pain lasting more than 6 hours
Pain radiating to the right shoulder and back
Nausea and vomiting
Fever and chills
Intolerance to fatty foods
Positive Murphy's sign (on examination)
Mild jaundice (rare)

Risk Factors

Gallstone disease
Female sex and advanced age
Obesity and rapid weight loss
Diabetes
Prolonged fasting and total parenteral nutrition
Critical illness and intensive care admission
Pregnancy and multiparity

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Right upper abdominal pain lasting more than 6 hours after fatty meals
  • Abdominal pain accompanied by fever, chills, and weakness
  • Jaundice and dark urine
  • Persistent vomiting and inability to take oral intake
  • Sudden severe pain in patient with known gallstones

Treatment Methods

01
Intravenous fluids, NPO status, and broad-spectrum antibiotics
02
Early laparoscopic cholecystectomy (preferred within first 72 hours)
03
Percutaneous cholecystostomy with drainage in high-risk patients
04
Stepwise approach according to Tokyo severity classification
05
Open cholecystectomy: in cases of dense adhesions, perforation, or anatomical uncertainty
06
Gradual transition to a low-fat diet after surgery

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.