Acute cholecystitis

Acute cholecystitis refers to the inflammation of the gallbladder, typically triggered by a gallstone obstructing the cystic duct. Gallstones are small, stone-like formations, primarily composed of cholesterol, that develop in the gallbladder. The cystic duct serves as the primary passage for the gallbladder. Gallstones are quite prevalent, impacting over 1 in 10 adults in the UK. While they often remain asymptomatic, they can sometimes lead to painful episodes known as biliary colic or result in acute cholecystitis.