Cholecystitis

Definition

Cholecystitis is the inflammation of the gallbladder, usually caused by the presence of gallstones blocking the cystic duct. This condition can lead to infection, necrosis, or perforation of the gallbladder, and is commonly associated with symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Understanding cholecystitis is crucial as it relates to the broader spectrum of hepatobiliary and pancreatic disorders, particularly in how these systems interact and influence each other during pathological conditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cholecystitis can be classified as acute or chronic, with acute cholecystitis being a sudden onset that may require immediate medical intervention.
2. The most common risk factors for developing cholecystitis include obesity, rapid weight loss, and being female, especially during pregnancy.
3. Symptoms often include severe right upper quadrant pain, tenderness over the gallbladder area, fever, and sometimes jaundice if there is bile duct involvement.
4. Diagnosis typically involves imaging techniques like ultrasound or CT scans to visualize gallstones and assess inflammation.
5. Complications of untreated cholecystitis can include perforation of the gallbladder, peritonitis, and sepsis, which can be life-threatening.

Review Questions

• How does the presence of gallstones contribute to the development of cholecystitis?
  • Gallstones can block the cystic duct, preventing bile from flowing out of the gallbladder. This blockage leads to increased pressure within the gallbladder and results in inflammation. If not treated promptly, this inflammation can cause complications such as infection or necrosis of the gallbladder tissue.
• What are the key differences between acute and chronic cholecystitis in terms of symptoms and management?
  • Acute cholecystitis presents suddenly with severe abdominal pain, fever, and nausea, requiring urgent medical attention. In contrast, chronic cholecystitis may cause intermittent symptoms over time, such as mild pain after meals. Management of acute cases often involves hospitalization and possibly surgery, while chronic cases may focus on lifestyle modifications and elective surgery.
• Evaluate the potential complications of untreated cholecystitis and their implications for patient health.
  • Untreated cholecystitis can lead to serious complications such as gallbladder perforation, which can result in peritonitis—a severe abdominal infection—or sepsis. These complications significantly increase morbidity and mortality risks for patients. Timely diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent these outcomes and ensure better recovery rates.

Related terms

gallstones:

Solid particles that form from bile cholesterol and bilirubin in the gallbladder, often leading to cholecystitis when they block bile flow.

bile duct obstruction: A blockage in the bile ducts that can prevent bile from draining properly, contributing to conditions like cholecystitis.

cholecystectomy:

A surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder, often performed as a treatment for severe cholecystitis.