Which term describes inflammation of the gallbladder, often associated with gallstones blocking bile flow?

• A. Gallstones
• B. Cholecystitis
• C. Hepatitis
• D. Jaundice

Answer: (B)

Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder. It often happens when a gallstone blocks the cystic duct, causing bile to back up, the gallbladder to become distended, and an inflammatory response to occur. This leads to symptoms like right upper quadrant abdominal pain, and may include fever and nausea; a classic sign during exam is a painful inspiration when pressing under the ribcage (positive Murphy sign).

Gallstones are the stones themselves, not inflammation. Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver, not the gallbladder. Jaundice is yellowing of the skin and eyes from elevated bilirubin and can result from various conditions, not specifically gallbladder inflammation.