Possible Complications Of Acute Cholecystitis

Acute cholecystitis, if left untreated, can lead to several serious complications. One of the most severe is gallbladder perforation, which can result in the release of infected bile into the abdominal cavity. This can cause localized abscess formation, particularly in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, and in severe cases, widespread infection. Patients may also experience high fever, which can progress to systemic inflammatory responses such as sepsis and septic shock.

The condition often begins with blockage of the gallbladder due to gallstones or polyps, which prevents proper bile drainage. As bile accumulates, the gallbladder becomes distended and inflamed. As the inflammation worsens, the gallbladder wall may develop gangrene or even rupture, leading to severe abdominal pain and peritonitis. In some cases, the body's immune response may contain the infection locally, forming a walled-off abscess.

However, if the infection spreads beyond the gallbladder into the general abdominal cavity, it can lead to septicemia. This systemic infection often presents with rapid heart rate, sometimes reaching 140–150 beats per minute, and dangerously low blood pressure, often below 90/60 mmHg. Septic shock can quickly become life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Early medical intervention is crucial in managing acute cholecystitis. The most effective treatment involves surgical removal of the inflamed gallbladder along with proper drainage of the infected area to prevent further complications. Delaying treatment significantly increases the risk of severe outcomes, including death. Therefore, timely diagnosis and intervention are essential for a favorable prognosis.