Acute Cholecystitis Differential Diagnoses

Updated: Jul 13, 2022
  • Author: Vinay K Kapoor, MBBS, MS, FRCSEd, FICS, FAMS; Chief Editor: BS Anand, MD  more...
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DDx

Diagnostic Considerations

Delay in making the diagnosis of acute cholecystitis results in a higher incidence of morbidity and mortality. This is especially true for intensive care unit (ICU) patients who may develop acalculous cholecystitis. The diagnosis should be considered and the patient evaluated promptly to prevent poor outcomes.

On rare occasions, acute cholecystitis may coexist with or be misdiagnosed as a cardiovascular disorder. [17]

Pregnant patients

Right upper quadrant pain in pregnancy can be related to a number of different diagnoses, including preeclampsia, appendicitis, and cholelithiasis. Pregnant patients must have a thorough examination because complications can arise quickly and can be life threatening to both the mother and the unborn child. [18, 19]

Differential Diagnoses