[Gallbladder torsion. A case report].

INTRODUCTION

The unusual anatomical position of the organ, generally suspended by a mesentery, allows the rare possibility of its torsion with necrosis and even perforation.

CASE REPORT: A woman, aged 78, who presented signs and symptoms similar to those of severe acute cholecystitis: abrupt onset of pain and a large palpable mass below the right costal margin. Immediate laparotomy with detorsion and easy cholecystectomy was performed.

CONCLUSIONS

Should a greatly enlarged mass be palpable below the right costal margin within a few hours from the abrupt onset of unremittant abdominal pain the possibility of torsion should come to mind not to delay operation in the supposition of acute cholecystitis.