Acute cholecystitis
Alternate Names : Cholecystitis - acute
Definition
Acute cholecystitis is a sudden inflammation of the gallbladder that causes severe abdominal pain. See also: Chronic cholecystitis
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
In 90% of cases, acute cholecystitis is caused by gallstones in the gallbladder. Severe illness and, rarely, tumors of the gallbladder may also cause cholecystitis. Acute cholecystitis causes bile to become trapped in the gallbladder. The buildup 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.
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