Post-traumatic acute acalculous cholecystitis in an adolescent: a case report
Post-traumatic acute acalculous cholecystitis in an adolescent: a case report
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51473/rcmos.v1i1.2026.2071Keywords:
Acalculous Cholecystitis. Abdominal Injuries. Gallbladder. Abdominal Pain. Adolescent.Abstract
Introduction: Acute acalculous cholecystitis (AAC) accounts for a minority of cholecystitis cases but is associated with higher morbidity and mortality, particularly in atypical contexts. Post-traumatic AAC results from ischemia, bile stasis, and direct injury to the gallbladder wall, and can easily be mistaken for abdominal pain related to trauma. Materials and Methods: Case report based on a review of the patient’s medical records. Case Report: A previously healthy 15-year-old female presented with progressive abdominal pain following blunt abdominal trauma during a soccer match. Laboratory tests revealed leukocytosis, and imaging findings were consistent with cholecystitis. Due to clinical deterioration, an exploratory laparotomy was performed, revealing rupture of the infundibulum with bile leakage, followed by cholecystectomy with irrigation and drainage. The patient had an uneventful postoperative course. Discussion: The nonspecific clinical presentation of AAC makes early diagnosis challenging, increasing the risk of severe complications such as gallbladder necrosis and perforation. Imaging findings are essential to raise diagnostic suspicion, and early surgical intervention is critical in complicated cases. Conclusion: Although rare, acalculous cholecystitis should be considered in patients with persistent abdominal pain after blunt abdominal trauma, even in young and previously healthy individuals. Early recognition and timely management are crucial to reduce morbidity and mortality.
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