Cholecystitis is defined as:

Cholecystitis is specifically characterized as the acute inflammation of the gallbladder, typically triggered by the presence of gallstones that block the cystic duct, leading to increased pressure and inflammation. This condition can present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes fever.

Acute cholecystitis usually requires prompt medical attention and may necessitate surgical intervention, often through cholecystectomy, to remove the inflamed gallbladder and alleviate symptoms.

While chronic inflammation of the gallbladder can occur, it is not the definition of cholecystitis; instead, it is referred to as chronic cholecystitis. Similarly, chronic liver disorders and inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) pertain to entirely different medical conditions, which do not accurately describe cholecystitis. Thus, the clear definition is centered on the acute nature of the gallbladder's inflammation, making it essential to recognize this specific classification within digestive system disorders.