A Curious Case of Acute Acalculous Cholecystitis

Abstract

Acute acalculous cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder without any evidence of gallstones. Although acalculous cholecystitis is less common than its calculous counterpart, it can be fatal if not treated. It is essential to rule out the cause of acalculous cholecystitis to aid in the treatment and management of the patient. We present a case of acalculous cholecystitis wherein a comprehensive workup found the etiology to be viral. Albeit rare, hepatitis A and cytomegalovirus can be causes of acute cholecystitis. Both viruses were observed simultaneously in this patient, proving it to be a unique case. This early diagnosis allowed conservative management of the patient, sparing him from unnecessary surgical intervention.