An unusual case of cholecystitis.
A 56-year-old woman with diabetes who had undergone a coronary artery bypass surgery for triple-vessel coronary artery disease presented 2 weeks after discharge with classic features of cholesterol embolization, blue toes, renal insufficiency, and intractable abdominal pain. Despite a multitude of investigations, the cause of her abdominal pain was elusive. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy revealed the cause: acute cholecystitis secondary to cholesterol crystal embolization. Although rare, cholecystitis as a manifestation of cholesterol embolization can occur, and prompt recognition will prevent unnecessary investigations and ensure immediate treatment.
Reddy
Madhulata
M
Department of Internal Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA. madhu_p_r@hotmail.com
Reddy
Pavan V
PV
D002764:Cholecystitis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology*; D017700:Embolism, Cholesterol / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged