Acute cholecystitis (Gallstones)

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Cholecystitis, cholangiogram	Cholecystitis, CT scan	Cholecystolithiasis	Digestive system
Digestive system organs	Gallbladder removal - series	Gallstones, cholangiogram

Acute cholecystitis is a sudden inflammation of the gallbladder that causes severe abdominal pain.

Cholecystitis - acute

In 90% of cases, acute cholecystitis is caused by gallstones in the gallbladder. Severe illness, alcohol abuse and, rarely, tumors of the gallbladder may also cause cholecystitis.

Acute cholecystitis causes bile to become trapped in the gallbladder. The build up of bile causes irritation and pressure in the gallbladder. This can lead to bacterial infection and perforation of the organ.

Gallstones occur more frequently in women than men. Gallstones become more common with age in both sexes. Native Americans have a higher rate of gallstones.

Review Date: 07/14/2006
Reviewed By: J.A. Lee, M.D., Division of Surgery, UCSF, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.