ACUTE VS CHRONIC CHOLECYSTITIS: DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT APPROACH

Abstract

Background: Acute and chronic cholecystitis are two distinct forms of gallbladder inflammation, primarily due to gallstone formation. Each has unique diagnostic and treatment approaches.  Their management strategies differ significantly, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis and timely treatment to mitigate risks associated with each form of cholecystitis. Aim: an overview to differentiate between acute and chronic cholecystitis in terms of diagnosis and treatment. Method: The PubMed and Google Scholar Search Engines were the primary databases used for the search process, with articles collected from 1980 to 2024. Conclusion: Cholecystitis, the inflammation of the gallbladder, can be acute or chronic, often caused by gallstones, with acute cases posing serious risks. Diagnosis involves clinical assessments, lab tests, and imaging to differentiate between the types, with ultrasound being the first line of investigation. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard for the radical treatment of both acute and chronic cholecystitis. Non-surgical options are available for symptom relief for specific cases. Both conditions can lead to severe complications, underscoring the importance of timely medical treatment.