Managing silent threats: Unveiling gangrenous complication in acute emphysematous cholecystitis

Abstract

Emphysematous cholecystitis is a potentially life-threatening variant of acute cholecystitis, characterized by the presence of gas in the gallbladder wall/lumen due to the proliferation of gas-producing bacteria. Symptoms include upper right quadrant pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Laboratory tests may show nonspecific indications of systemic infection, and radiological assessment, especially CT scanning, is crucial for diagnosis. This case underscores the significance of early diagnosis and intervention in managing emphysematous cholecystitis to prevent serious complications and reduce the higher mortality rate compared to acute cholecystitis.

Keywords

• Acute emphysematous cholecystitis
• Gangrenous Cholecystitis
• Computed tomography scan
• Abdominal imaging