Emphysematous cholecystitis: a report of three cases

Abstract

Background: Emphysematous cholecystitis (EC) is a rare presentation of acute cholecystitis.
Material and methods: We report three cases of EC in two men and one woman between 55 and 79 years. One of the patients was otherwise healthy while the other two were diabetics. A computed tomography (CT) scan was performed in all the cases. Two patients underwent video-assisted lapa- roscopic cholecystectomy with favorable outcome and one patient underwent percutaneous chole- cystostomy.
Discussion: Emphysematous cholecystitis is characterized by the presence of gas in the gallbladder lu- men or wall. Mortality rate is 50%. Most patients are diabetics, but EC may present in younger patients without risk factors. Computed tomography scan is the method of choice for the diagnosis. Cholecys- tectomy is indicated as definite treatment, but percutaneous cholecystostomy may be a valid option.
Conclusions: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy and antibiotics are effective and safe to treat.