Gangrenous cholecystitis is the most common complication of acute cholecystitis, affecting ~15% (range 2-30%) of patients.
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Epidemiology
Risk factors
male
increasing age
delayed surgery
cardiovascular disease
Pathology
Gangrenous cholecystitis occurs as a result of ischemia with necrosis of the gallbladder wall 4. Cystic duct obstruction results in increased gallbladder luminal pressure, which may lead to gallbladder wall ischemia progressing to necrosis. Gallbladder perforation occurs in about 10% of necrotic gallbladders.
Radiographic features
Ultrasound
In addition to features of acute cholecystitis, the following may help diagnose gangrenous cholecystitis 3:
intraluminal membranes suggesting sloughing of the necrotic mucosa
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asymmetrical wall thickness
with possible wall disruption and/or ulceration
focal perfusion defects on Doppler (representing areas of necrosis)
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variable absence of the sonographic Murphy sign 7
A negative sonographic Murphy Sign occurs in about a third of gangrenous cholecystitis. This may be attributed to ischemic denervation of the gallbladder 6
CT
In addition to features of acute cholecystitis, the following may help diagnose gangrenous cholecystitis 1:
gallbladder wall air or lumen gas (emphysematous cholecystitis)
focal irregularity or defect in the gallbladder wall
intraluminal membranes
absence of mural enhancement
Treatment and prognosis
Mortality is increased compared to uncomplicated acute cholecystitis, estimated at between 15-50% 4.