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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; Gallstones - acute cholecyctitis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

In 90% of cases, acute cholecystitis is caused by gallstones in the gallbladder, which obstruct the duct leading from the gallbladder to the common bile duct (which drains into the intestine). Severe illness, alcohol abuse and, rarely, tumors of the gallbladder can also cause cholecystitis.

The trapped bile becomes concentrated and causes irritation and pressure build-up in the gallbladder. This can lead to bacterial infection and perforation. The attack may follow a large or fatty meal.

Gallstones occur more frequently in women than men, and it becomes more common with age in both sexes. Native Americans have a higher incidence of gallstones.



Review Date: 11/18/2002
Reviewed By: James P. Dolan, M.D., Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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