Gallbladder volvulus in pediatric age: Case report

Abstract

IntroductionGallbladder volvulus is the rarest form of gall bladder pathology and it is also rare cause of acute abdomen. The exact etiology of gallbladder volvulus is undetermined and mostly mimics acute cholecystitis which delays diagnosis and management of patients. Case presentationIn this case report we present 7 years old male child who underwent exploratory laparotomy and intraoperative findings of 360 degree twisted, frankly gangrenous, and perforated at the fundus of the gallbladder. Cholecystectomy was done and the patient had smooth post-operative course and discharged improved. Clinical discussionGallbladder volvulus is a rare cause of acute abdomen especially in pediatric population and it mostly mimics acute acalculous cholecystitis leading to delayed diagnosis and increased risk of complications such as gallbladder gangrene, perforation, bile peritonitis, morbidity and mortality. ConclusionEven though gallbladder volvulus is rare as cause of acute abdomen, one has to consider in the differential diagnosis as high index of suspicion is important for early diagnosis and management.