Learning About Cholecystitis in Children

Cholecystitis (say "koh-lih-sis-TY-tus") is inflammation of the gallbladder. The gallbladder stores bile. Bile helps the body digest food. Normally, the bile flows from the gallbladder to the small intestine.

A gallstone stuck in the cystic duct is most often the cause of sudden (acute) cholecystitis. The cystic duct is the tube that carries the bile out of the gallbladder. The gallstone blocks the bile from leaving the gallbladder. This results in an irritated and swollen gallbladder.

The swollen gallbladder can also be caused by infection or injury to the belly.

Cholecystitis has to be treated right away and likely in the hospital. Surgery is the usual treatment.

The most common symptom of acute cholecystitis is pain in the upper right part of the belly. Most often this happens after eating a meal. The pain can move to the back or the right shoulder blade. You may also have nausea, vomiting, or a fever.

The main way to treat this condition is surgery to remove the gallbladder. This surgery can often be done through small cuts (incisions) in the belly. This is called a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. In some cases, your child may need open surgery through a larger incision in the upper belly.

Your child may need surgery as soon as possible. The doctor may try to reduce swelling and irritation in the gallbladder before it is removed. Your child may be given fluids and antibiotics through a vein (intravenous, I.V.). Your child also may be given pain medicine.