Gallbladder torsion with gangrenous cholecystitis: a case report

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Case Report

Background:

• Gallbladder torsion is a rare cause of acute cholecystitis, particularly in the elderly.
• It often presents with non-specific symptoms, mimicking typical cholecystitis.

Observation:

• An elderly woman presented with right upper quadrant pain, nausea, and anorexia.
• Initial investigations, including labs and ultrasound, suggested acute cholecystitis, but symptoms persisted despite antibiotics.

Findings:

• Intraoperative findings revealed 360° clockwise torsion of a gangrenous gallbladder.
• Histopathology confirmed acute cholecystitis with extensive mural necrosis.

Implications:

• Prompt surgical intervention, such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy, is crucial for managing gallbladder torsion.
• This case highlights the importance of considering rare diagnoses in elderly patients with persistent abdominal symptoms.