When is gallbladder removal surgery necessary?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 41-year-old female with hypothyroidism. I have had vague abdominal discomfort and gas for nearly one month. Abdominal ultrasound showed the gallbladder wall is thickened (5.1 mm) and oedematous. Gallbladder volume is 30 cc. No calculi were seen. CRP is slightly elevated (16.75).

I am told I need to have my gallbladder removed. I want to know if there are other options. Also, my symptoms do not seem to match my diagnosis (chronic acalculous cholecystitis).

Is that the only option?
Do my symptoms really match my diagnosis?
Should I have any additional tests done to confirm?

Please help me.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

No, in your case, it is chronic cholecystitis and no stones, and your symptoms do not match with it exactly. I would recommend a repeat ultrasound at another place, without showing this report, to have an independent second opinion.
Acalculous cholecystitis is a very different thing and more common in elderly sick patients, such as those in the ICU.
You are taking Sertraline, which means you have anxiety or stress. Your gut must be sensitive, too. Vague pain can be explained there, too.
Recheck your CRP (C-reactive protein) after using appropriate antibiotics.

Reply to me if you have more concerns or questions.

I hope this information helps you.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

You are welcome.