Acute acalculous cholecystitis (AAC) in the pediatric population associated with Epstein–Barr Virus (EBV) infection. Case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND: Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous herpes virus that persists lifelong in normal humans by colonizing memory B cells. Infection during childhood is usually asymptomatic. Isolated gallbladder wall thickening or hydrops have been reported in patients with EBV infectious mononucleosis. However, acute acalculous cholecystitis is an atypical clinical presentation of primary EBV infection. We present a teenager with acute cholecystitis associated with EBV acute infection. Acute acalculous cholecystitis accounts for 2–15% of all cases of acute cholecystitis. Few cases of acute cholecystitis have been reported during the course of primary EBV infection. PRESENTATION OF CASE: A 15-year-old female who came to the JDCH ER complaining of 3 days history of mild diffuse abdominal pain associated with two episodes of emesis. She also reports headache as well as a mild cough and low grade subjective fever. Blood test results showed mild leukocytosis with significant elevation in the lymphocytes (59%), High alkaline phosphatase (221 U/I), AST (191 U/I), ALT(221 U/I) and bilirubin (Total 1.8 and direct 1.5). Abdominal US showed a contracted gallbladder with wall thickness and pericholecystic fluid. During hospital stay number 2–3 laboratory work up show a trending up in the bilirubin levels. MRCP was ordered and no abdnormalities were found. At this point Hospital stay number 3 EBV acute infection was suspected. Serum serological studies were subsequently diagnostic for this viral disease. Management was conservative and the patient was discharged asymptomatic on hospital day number six.