Liver CT Appearances
Acute Cholecystitis CT Findings
- Most patients have gallstones which may be single or multiple
- Gallbladder wall is usually thickened and may be indistinct
- Gallbladder may be distended
- Presence of pericholecystic fluid or fat stranding
- Liver adjacent to the gallbladder may be enhanced (“rim sign”)
Other Information About Acute Cholecystitis
Etiology:
- Caused by gallstones blocking the cystic duct
- High cholesterol diet
Epidemiology:
- More common in females
- More common in people of Native American or Hispanic ancestry
- Typically affects people over age 40
Presentation:
- RUQ pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Bloating
Prognosis:
- Can be treated with surgery
- Untreated cholecystitis can lead to severe complications