Spontaneous Gallbladder Perforation: A Case Report

Abstract

Emphysematous cholecystitis (EC) is an acute infection caused by gas-forming organisms and is considered a surgical emergency. The presenting symptoms of EC are often difficult to distinguish from those of uncomplicated acute cholecystitis, necessitating the use of CT for diagnosis. EC is associated with higher rates of gangrene and perforation of the gallbladder compared to typical acute cholecystitis. It is also associated with significantly higher rates of mortality. In this report, we discuss the case of a 57-year-old African American female who presented to the emergency room with nausea, non-bloody vomiting, and abdominal pain for three days. Physical examination showed a soft but tender abdomen, especially in the right upper quadrant, and labs showed leukocytosis of 15.5/mm³. A CT of the abdomen and pelvis was ordered, which demonstrated air in the gallbladder lumen with extraluminal air adjacent indicating ruptured EC.

Keywords: cancer gallbladder; cholecystectomy; cholecystitis; emergent general surgery; gallbladder perforation.

Figure 1. CT scan showing perforated gallbladder (arrow)

CT: computed tomography

Figure 2. The perforated gallbladder