Cholecystitis: What It Means on Ultrasound (Gallbladder Inflammation)

Cholecystitis is a common term in abdominal ultrasound reports. Here is what it describes.

What cholecystitis is

It is inflammation of the gallbladder. "Cholecyst" = gallbladder, "itis" = inflammation. It often relates to stones blocking its outlet.

What the radiologist looks for

A thickened gallbladder wall, surrounding fluid, a distended gallbladder, and the sonographic Murphy sign (pain when pressing with the probe).

When it's urgent

Severe, persistent right-side pain with fever needs prompt medical care.

The method's view

Real-time ultrasound is one of the best tools to look at the gallbladder.

Educational content to help you understand your report. Not a diagnosis and not a substitute for your doctor/radiologist, who sees the full image.