PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which laboratory findings are typically elevated in a patient with cholecystitis?

1. Increased serum amylase

2. Increased WBC and minor LFT abnormalities

3. Increased creatinine levels

4. Decreased alkaline phosphatase

The correct answer is: Increased WBC and minor LFT abnormalities

In cases of cholecystitis, particularly acute cholecystitis, the laboratory findings that are typically observed include an increase in white blood cell (WBC) count as a response to inflammation and possible infection. This is a common hematological response that indicates the body is fighting an inflammatory process. In addition to elevated WBC counts, mild liver function test (LFT) abnormalities may be noted due to the inflammatory proximity of the gallbladder to the liver and bile duct. This can include slight elevations in liver enzymes such as AST and ALT, although these may not be as pronounced as in acute hepatitis or other liver pathologies. The other options do not align with the typical laboratory findings associated with cholecystitis. Elevated serum amylase is more commonly associated with pancreatitis rather than cholecystitis, as amylase may rise due to pancreatitis-related issues in the nearby pancreas. Increased creatinine levels would suggest renal impairment and are not directly related to cholecystitis. Decreased alkaline phosphatase would not be expected in cholecystitis; rather, it might be elevated if there is a concurrent obstructive process affecting the bile ducts, but it would not be decreased. Thus