ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Acute cholecystitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver that stores bile, a fluid that aids in the digestion of fats. This inflammation is typically caused by the blockage or obstruction of the cystic duct, which connects the gallbladder to the common bile duct. The obstruction is commonly caused by the presence of gallstones, small hard deposits that form in the gallbladder.
Individuals experiencing acute cholecystitis often present with severe abdominal pain, typically on the right side of the abdomen, which may radiate to the shoulder or back. Other symptoms can include fever, nausea, vomiting, and tenderness in the area of the gallbladder. These symptoms usually occur after a high-fat meal, as it triggers the release of bile, leading to increased pressure within the gallbladder.
If left untreated, acute cholecystitis can lead to serious complications, such as the formation of pus or a perforation in the gallbladder, which can result in a life-threatening infection. Diagnosis of acute cholecystitis often involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging techniques like ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scans.
Treatment for acute cholecystitis often involves hospitalization and the administration of intravenous fluids and antibiotics to control the infection. In most cases, removal of the gallbladder, known as cholecystectomy, is recommended to prevent recurrent episodes of acute cholecystitis. Cholecystectomy can be performed either as an open surgery or through minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy.
Etymology of ACUTE CHOLECYSTITIS
The term "acute cholecystitis" can be broken down into two parts:
1. Acute: The word "acute" comes from the Latin word "acutus", which means sharp or pointed. In medical terminology, "acute" refers to a rapid onset, severe symptoms, and a short duration.
2. Cholecystitis: "Cholecystitis" is derived from Greek terms. "Chole" means bile, and "cyst" refers to the sac-like structure, while "itis" signifies inflammation. Therefore, "cholecystitis" specifically refers to the inflammation of the gallbladder, which is a small organ located beneath the liver.
Overall, "acute cholecystitis" can be understood as the sudden and severe inflammation of the gallbladder.
