Abstract: World Journal of Medicine and Health Care

Abstract:
We present a rare case of cholecystitis secondary to prolonged ketamine use in a 48- year-old male with a history of major depressive disorder. The patient presented to the emergency room with complaints of right upper quadrant abdominal pain, fever, and jaundice. Imaging studies revealed an inflamed gallbladder consistent with acute cholecystitis. Further history revealed that the patient had been undergoing ketamine therapies for depression and anxiety through an online company not approved by regulatory authorities. This case underscores the importance of considering ketamine abuse in the differential diagnosis of cholecystitis, particularly in patients with atypical presentations and a history of substance use. Clinicians should remain vigilant for potential complications of ketamine use beyond its primary effects on the central nervous system and be aware of the risks associated with unregulated ketamine therapies.