Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026

Bile Duct Ligation in Mice: Induction of Inflammatory Liver Injury and Fibrosis by Obstructive Cholestasis
Published on: February 10, 2015
Acute inflammation and distension of the gall bladder in infancy
Insights
Acute acalculous cholecystitis is rare in infants but presents as a palpable abdominal mass. Early surgical intervention, specifically cholecystectomy, is recommended for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Neonatal Medicine
Background:
- Acute cholecystitis is uncommon in children, often linked to hemolytic anemias, infections, or congenital issues.
- Gallbladder inflammation and distension in infants are exceptionally rare, with unknown causes.
Observation:
- This study details two infant cases of acute acalculous cholecystitis.
- Both infants presented with significantly distended gallbladders.
Findings:
- Acute acalculous cholecystitis should be considered in infants with right abdominal masses or tenderness, especially if ill.
- The underlying cause in infants is frequently unidentified.
Implications:
- Early surgical management, including cholecystectomy, is advised for acute acalculous cholecystitis in infants.
- Recognizing this rare condition is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment in affected infants.
Abstract:
Acute cholecystitis in children is a rare disease which has been associated with haemolytic anaemias, intercurrent illness and congenital anomalies. Acute inflammation and distension of the gall bladder in infancy is very rare and the underlying cause is usually not identified. This study describes two infants presenting with acute acalculous cholecystitis with marked distension of the gall bladder. It is stressed that this entity must be taken into account in the differential diagnosis when there is a palpable mass and/or tenderness in the right abdomen, particularly in the presence of intercurrent illness. Early operation is recommended and cholecystectomy is the preferred procedure.
Related Concept Videos
Gallbladder
The gallbladder's anatomy consists of three regions: the fundus, body, and neck. Extending from the neck, the cystic duct joins the common...
Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Acute pancreatitis is characterized by rapid inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by factors like gallstone blockage or excessive alcohol consumption. Chronic pancreatitis, on the other hand, is a slow, progressive inflammation that may result from long-term alcohol abuse, obstructions in the pancreatic duct, or genetic factors.
The causes of acute pancreatitis include:
Appendicitis-I: Introduction
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Appendicitis
Cholecystitis
Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction

