What symptom is typically associated with acute cholecystitis?

Acute cholecystitis is primarily characterized by inflammation of the gallbladder, usually due to a gallstone obstructing the cystic duct. The classic symptom associated with acute cholecystitis is a sudden onset of pain that typically starts in the epigastric region and then migrates to the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. This pattern of pain movement is often described as being sharp and can be accompanied by tenderness in the right upper quadrant when examined.

This specific symptom stems from irritation of the peritoneum as gallbladder inflammation worsens, leading to localized pain in the area where the gallbladder is situated. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, fever, and potentially, jaundice, depending on the extent of the condition. Understanding this symptom is crucial for differentiating acute cholecystitis from other abdominal conditions, which may present differently.