typhoid gallbladder

Last reviewed 01/2018

Typhoid gallbladder is infection of the gallbladder by Salmonella typhi, S. paratyphi or less commonly, Salmonella typhimurium. Typically, the patient presents with chronic cholecystitis and is a typhoid carrier, excreting the bacteria in the bile.

Normally, Salmonella can be cultured from the stones but it is debatable whether pre-existing stones predispose the gallbladder to infection or whether the stones are formed secondary to the salmonella cholecystitis.

It is treated by 4-quinolone antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, and also by cholecystectomy.