Diagnostic complexity in the older patient: an unusual presentation of advanced biliary disease

Abstract

Abstract Biliary disease is common in the older population, and gallbladder dysfunction and increased bile lithogenicity predispose to calculi formation. This case demonstrates an unusual presentation of gallbladder empyema. A 90-year-old male with metastatic prostate cancer presented with hypoactive delirium. With no localising features, normal liver function tests but persistently raised inflammatory markers, he was initially managed as a urinary tract infection. Chest wall discomfort and swelling over the right costal margin later developed. Abdominal imaging demonstrated a massive gallbladder empyema invaginating through the lower right rib cage, causing the superficial swelling. Pre-morbid status prevented cholecystectomy and he was managed conservatively with percutaneous cholecystostomy and antibiotics. He was discharged to 24-h care 2 weeks after diagnosis with a long-term drain.