Acalculous cholecystitis presenting in an out-patient with no risk factors

Acute acalculous cholecystitis (AAC) is recognised to occur in patients with serious co-morbid illnesses such as after major surgery, severe trauma, burns, multi-organ failure, systemic sepsis and prolonged intravenous hyperalimentation. The development of AAC in outpatients with none of the traditional risk factors appears to be increasing. The incidence of this form of AAC in South Africa has not yet been established. Prompt recognition of this condition and appropriate surgical management is necessary to minimise morbidity and mortality. This report describes a 52-year-old man who developed AAC in the absence of the usual risk factors. SA JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY February 2012