Diagnosis of a rare case of duodenal-gallbladder fistula: a case report

Duodenal-cholecystic fistula is a rare condition characterized by an abnormal communication between the duodenum and gallbladder, often caused by chronic gallstone erosion. A less common cause is duodenal ulcer perforation leading to gallbladder perforation and fistula. This case describes a 69-year-old male presenting with abdominal pain, elevated inflammatory markers, and radiological evidence of pneumobilia and ascites. Intraoperative findings revealed a perforated duodenal ulcer communicating with the gallbladder, resulting in an internal fistula. The postoperative duodenal fistula was managed successfully with enteral nutrition and somatostatin analogs. This case highlights diagnostic challenges in atypical acute abdomen presentations.