Diagnosing Acute Cholecystitis
Acute cholecystitis is an inflammation of the gallbladder with associated fever and abdominal pain. To diagnose acute cholecystitis, several examinations, screening tests, and procedures may be done. These tests help confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the condition. The specialists involved in diagnosing acute cholecystitis are usually healthcare providers such as primary care physicians, gastroenterologists, or general surgeons.
Here are the common examinations, screening tests, and procedures used to diagnose acute cholecystitis:
- Medical history and physical examination: A healthcare professional will gather information about your medical history and perform a physical examination. They will look for signs of a medical problem, such as tenderness and swelling in the abdomen.
- Blood tests: Blood tests provide valuable information about your overall health and can help assess liver function. A complete blood count (CBC) is often done to check for infection or inflammation. Additionally, a liver function panel can indicate if there is any blockage in the bile flow.
- Ultrasonography: This is usually the first step in diagnosing gallstone disease or acute cholecystitis. Ultrasonography uses sound waves to create an image of your gallbladder and bile ducts. It can reveal the presence of gallstones or inflammation in the gallbladder.
- Hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) scan: This scan helps track and identify any obstruction in the bile flow. A radioactive tracer is injected into your body through an intravenous (IV) injection, and a special camera is used to view how the tracer moves through your body.
- Computed tomography (CT) scan: CT scans create cross-sectional images of your abdomen, providing detailed information about the condition of your gallbladder.
Remember that while these examinations and tests can provide valuable information for diagnosing acute cholecystitis and determining its severity, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific situation.