Cholecystitis Ultrasound Findings

During an ultrasound examination performed on an empty stomach, the gallbladder is typically filled with bile, allowing for a clear assessment of the gallbladder wall. One of the key indicators of cholecystitis is the thickening of the gallbladder wall. Normally, the wall thickness should be around 3mm or less. When the wall appears rough, thickened, or irregular, it is often a sign of inflammation. Additionally, the overall size of the gallbladder can be evaluated. A normal gallbladder usually measures less than 10cm in length and less than 3.5cm in width. If the gallbladder appears enlarged, it may indicate acute or chronic cholecystitis.

Another important aspect of ultrasound evaluation is the presence of gallstones, which are commonly associated with cholecystitis. During the examination, the sonographer may ask the patient to take a deep breath and then apply pressure over the gallbladder area with the probe. If this maneuver causes significant pain, it is referred to as a positive sonographic Murphy's sign, which is highly suggestive of cholecystitis. This diagnostic technique helps clinicians differentiate gallbladder disease from other abdominal pathologies. The combination of wall thickening, gallbladder enlargement, presence of gallstones, and a positive Murphy's sign provides a strong basis for diagnosing cholecystitis using ultrasound imaging.