Learning About Acute Cholecystitis in Children

What is acute cholecystitis?

Cholecystitis (say "koh-lih-sis-TY-tus") is inflammation of the gallbladder. The gallbladder stores bile. Bile helps the body digest food. Normally, the bile flows from the gallbladder to the small intestine.

A gallstone stuck in the cystic duct is most often the cause of sudden (acute) cholecystitis. The cystic duct is the tube that carries the bile out of the gallbladder. The gallstone blocks the bile from leaving the gallbladder. This results in an irritated and swollen gallbladder.

The disease can also be caused by infection or trauma, such as an injury from a car accident.

Cholecystitis has to be treated right away and likely in the hospital. Surgery is the usual treatment.

What are the symptoms?

The most common symptom of acute cholecystitis is steady and severe pain in the upper right part of the belly. The pain can move to the back or the right shoulder blade. You may also have nausea, vomiting, or a fever.

How is it treated?

The main way to treat this disease is surgery to remove the gallbladder. This surgery can often be done through small cuts (incisions) in the belly. This is called a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. In some cases, your child may need a more extensive surgery.

Your child may need surgery as soon as possible. The doctor may try to reduce swelling and irritation in the gallbladder before removing it. Your child may be given fluids and antibiotics through an I.V. Your child also may be given pain medicine.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.