Clinical features, diagnostic findings, and outcomes of emphysematous cholecystitis in 35 dogs: a retrospective case series.

EC presents with vomiting, lethargy, inflammatory leukogram; medical or surgical management both viable.

This retrospective case series describes emphysematous cholecystitis (EC), a rare and severe acute cholecystitis variant, in 35 dogs across 4 referral teaching hospitals from 2000-2024. Clinical presentation commonly included vomiting (66%), lethargy (66%), and inappetence (43%). Laboratory findings typically showed inflammatory leukograms (68%), elevated liver enzymes (85%), and mild hyperbilirubinemia. Ultrasonography or CT confirmed diagnosis. Bacterial culture revealed Escherichia coli and Clostridium spp. as predominant isolates. Of 14 dogs undergoing cholecystectomy, 29% died postoperatively. Medical management alone was successful in 11 of 35 dogs (31%), with 5 of 6 dogs with long-term follow-up surviving beyond 6 months. Cholecystectomy enables source control and culture-guided antimicrobial therapy; however, empirical medical management can be effective in selected cases. Outcomes suggest EC carries significant morbidity and mortality requiring prompt recognition and aggressive intervention.

This summary was distilled by AI and may occasionally misinterpret data. Confirm critical details with the primary literature before clinical application.