Acute cholecystitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the gallbladder. It is most commonly caused by gallstones blocking the cystic duct, leading to bile accumulation and subsequent infection. This article aims to explore current insights into acute cholecystitis, utilizing reputable sources from Google Scholar.

Key Findings on Acute Cholecystitis:

1. Diagnosis

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• The diagnosis of acute cholecystitis involves a combination of clinical assessment, imaging techniques such as ultrasound or CT scan, and laboratory tests to evaluate inflammation markers.
• The Tokyo Guidelines, an internationally recognized diagnostic criteria system, help standardize the diagnosis and management of acute cholecystitis.

2. Pathophysiology

– Gallstones are the primary cause behind over 90% of cases of acute cholecystitis.
– The cystic duct obstruction leads to a buildup of bile within the gallbladder, causing distention and subsequent inflammation.
– Inflammation can progress to necrosis or perforation if left untreated.

3. Clinical Presentation

– Common symptoms of acute cholecystitis include severe right upper abdominal pain, tenderness upon palpation, fever, and nausea/vomiting.
– Murphy’s sign (pain upon deep inspiration while fingers are placed beneath the right costal margin) is a classic physical finding associated with this condition.

4. Complications

– If not promptly treated, acute cholecystitis can lead to various complications such as gallbladder gangrene, peritonitis (inflammation of the peritoneum), or abscess formation.
– Choledocholithiasis (gallstone in the common bile duct) can occur as a result of stones migrating from the gallbladder.

5. Treatment

– The mainstay treatment for acute cholecystitis is early surgical removal of the gallbladder, known as cholecystectomy.
– In critically ill patients who are not suitable for immediate surgery, percutaneous cholecystostomy can be performed as a temporary measure.
– Antibiotics may be prescribed to control infection, especially in high-risk patients or those with signs of systemic inflammation.

Summary:

Acute cholecystitis is a condition characterized by gallbladder inflammation, primarily caused by gallstone obstruction. Prompt diagnosis of acute cholecystitis involves clinical assessment, imaging techniques, and laboratory tests. Common symptoms include intense abdominal pain, tenderness, fever, and nausea/vomiting. If left untreated, complications such as gangrene or abscess formation may occur. The main treatment is surgical removal of the gallbladder. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to control infection. Early intervention is crucial to prevent potential complications and ensure a favorable outcome for patients with acute cholecystitis.