title: Emphysematous cholecystitis in an elderly woman: case report and review of the literature.
abstract: Cholecystitis, a frequent diagnosis in emergency departments, has been discussed extensively in the medical literature. We report a case of emphysematous cholecystitis, an unusual form of this disease process, including the classic radiographic findings. We also offer a review of the literature, emphasizing the proposed pathophysiology and the life-threatening nature of this surgical condition. Early recognition and surgical consultation are vital in these patients.
authors.affiliation: Department of Emergency Medicine, George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC.
authors.forename: B T
authors.initials: BT
authors.lastname: Jolly
authors.forename: J N
authors.initials: JN
authors.lastname: Love
mesh_terms: D000208:Acute Disease; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002764:Cholecystitis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000503:physiopathology; D002765:Cholecystography; D004630:Emergencies; D004646:Emphysema / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans