Gallbladder Inflammation: Is It Always Caused by Gallstones?

Gallbladder inflammation does not always mean the presence of gallstones. While it is common for gallstones to coexist with gallbladder inflammation, they are not the sole cause. In many cases, long-standing gallstones can irritate the gallbladder lining, leading to either chronic or acute cholecystitis. However, there is also a condition known as acalculous cholecystitis, which refers to gallbladder inflammation without the presence of stones.

In acalculous cholecystitis, the gallbladder itself becomes inflamed due to other factors. Patients may experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, and medical imaging may reveal gallbladder wall thickening, edema, or surrounding fluid accumulation. Despite these signs, an ultrasound or other imaging tests may show no gallstones inside the gallbladder.

This type of inflammation can be caused by various underlying conditions. For example, high blood sugar levels, gallbladder vascular issues, or systemic infections can lead to gallbladder dysfunction and inflammation. These cases often result in severe inflammation, increasing the risk of complications such as gangrene or perforation of the gallbladder.

Once diagnosed, surgical removal of the gallbladder is often recommended. This is because non-stone-related cholecystitis can progress rapidly and become life-threatening if not treated promptly. Early intervention helps prevent serious complications and improves patient outcomes.

Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing acalculous cholecystitis effectively. Doctors may rely on a combination of clinical symptoms, blood tests, and imaging studies to identify the condition and determine the best course of action.