A 51-year-old female presenting with shock due to hemorrhagic cholecystitis.

Abstract

Hemorrhagic cholecystitis is a rare cause of abdominal pain that can have dire consequences. We report a case of hemorrhagic cholecystitis in a 51-year-old female presenting as shock and abdominal pain. The patient was transported to the emergency room. Ultrasound scan revealed hemoperitoneum and cholecystitis features. On computed tomography, mild gallbladder wall thickening and high density materials in the gallbladder suggested acute calculous cholecystitis, bleeding tumor, or hemorrhagic cholecystitis. An urgent cystic arterial embolization and percutaneous transhepatic drainage were done. After initial stablization, laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed that revealed a necrotic gallbladder filled with large blood clots. It was important for timely management by having an early recognition of this potentially fatal condition.