Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, a small pear-shaped organ in the upper right area of the abdomen. The gallbladder holds bile produced by the liver. The bile is released into the small intestine where it aids in digestion, especially the absorption of fats. If the gallbladder is removed,that function is performed directly by the liver.Figure 1
In many cases of acute cholecystitis gallstones (solid lumps formed by substances found in the gallbladder) block the bile ducts (tubes that allow bile to pass from the gallbladder into the small intestine). Bile builds up and can push on the walls of the gallbladder, causing inflammation. Other causes of acute cholecystitis include infection, trauma, diabetes,or blockage of the bile ducts due to a tumor.
The January 1,2003,issue of JAMA includes an article about diagnosing acute cholecystitis.
Symptoms of acute cholecystitis include
Intense, sudden pain in the upper right part of the abdomen
Recurrent, painful attacks for several hours after meals
Pain that can worsen with deep breaths and that extends to the lower part of the right shoulder blade
Shortness of breath due to pain when inhaling
Nausea
Vomiting
Stiff abdominal muscles,,especially on the right side
Slight fever
Chills
Jaundice ((yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Abdominal bloating
Because the symptoms of acute cholecystitis can resemble symptoms of other illnesses, it is sometimes difficult to diagnose. If a doctor suspects acute cholecystitis after a careful physical examination, he or she may perform some of the following tests:
Abdominal ultrasound—use of high-frequency sound waves to create an image of internal organs
Hepatobiliary scintigraphy—an imaging technique used to see the liver, bile ducts, gallbladder, and upper part of the small intestine
Cholangiography—injection of dye into the bile ducts so the gallbladder and ducts can be seen on x-rays
Computed tomography scan (CT scan)—an imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce images of the internal organs
Treatment for acute cholecystitis usually involves hospitalization. The patient is not allowed to eat or drink, and liquids are given through an intravenous (IV) line. If an infection is suspected, antibiotics may be given. Most patients who have acute cholecystitis have their gallbladder removed, either immediately after diagnosis or after the patient has improved. This procedure, called a cholecystectomy, can be performed using a laparoscope (a tube inserted through small incisions) or by conventional surgery.
American College of Surgeons 312/202-5000www.facs.org/public_info/operation/cholesys.pdf
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Sources: American College of Surgeons, Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine
Topic: ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
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