Computed Tomography Signs in Acute Cholecystitis

Background: Acute cholecystitis remains to be a frequent presentation in emergency rooms worldwide. Role of ultrasound in evaluation of acute cholecystitis is well established however, Computed Tomography (CT) is still under evaluated as a diagnostic modality for detection of acute cholecystitis. In this work we describe frequencies of various CT signs in pathologically proven cases of cholecystitis. Methods: Retrospective review of CT images of 120 patients with cholecystitis for identifying signs of cholecystitis and their relative frequencies. Results: Pericholecystic inflammatory changes with or without fluid collection was the most common CT sign followed in order by; gall bladder distention, wall thickening, mucosal enhancement, visualization of calculi, tensile fundus sign and reactive hepatic hyperemia. Conclusion: An understanding of CT signs in diagnosis of cholecystitis will help improve the diagnostic confidence as well as ensure prompt diagnosis of cholecystitis.