Acute Cholecystitis Causes and Treatment Options

Acute cholecystitis is commonly associated with gallbladder stones, which can often be detected through ultrasound imaging. In some cases, larger stones may not be present, but small stones or crystal formations can still trigger inflammation of the gallbladder. One of the primary causes of this condition is partial blockage of the cystic duct, which prevents bile from flowing out of the gallbladder properly. This obstruction can lead to gallbladder distension and subsequent inflammation or even structural changes in the gallbladder.

In addition to stone-related causes, acalculous cholecystitis—where no stones are present—can occur due to bacterial infections or changes in bile composition. These factors can irritate the gallbladder lining and lead to acute inflammation. This type of cholecystitis is often seen in critically ill patients or those with weakened immune systems.

For mild cases of acute cholecystitis, non-surgical treatments are often effective. If there is no significant obstruction, perforation, severe infection, or septic shock, most patients can be treated successfully with medications such as antibiotics. These help reduce inflammation and control infection in the early stages. However, for more severe cases involving high fever, gallbladder necrosis, perforation, or intense right upper quadrant pain, urgent intervention such as drainage or surgical removal of the gallbladder may be necessary. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications and improve patient outcomes.