Thesis
Gallbladder Sludge in Cats: Associations With Bile Culture, Liver Enzymes, and Cholangiohepatitis in 166 Cases
Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
2025
Abstract
Objectives:To determine the clinical relevance of gallbladder sludge (GBS) in cats by assessing its
association with neutrophilic cholangitis/cholangiohepatitis (NC/CH), bile culture results, serum
biochemical abnormalities, and ultrasonographic findings suggestive of pancreatitis or small
intestinal thickening.
Methods:
A retrospective review was performed on 166 cats that underwent percutaneous ultrasound-
guided cholecystocentesis. Data collected included ultrasonographic presence of GBS, bile
culture and cytology results, liver enzyme activities, total bilirubin concentration, and final
diagnosis of NC/CH. Statistical associations were evaluated using Fisher’s exact test and odds
ratios.
Results:
GBS was identified in 107/166 (64%) cats. There was no significant association between GBS
and positive bile culture, bactibilia, or NC/CH (p > 0.84), nor with elevated ALP or total bilirubin
(p > 0.8). Cats with GBS were more likely to have normal ALT activity compared to GBS-
negative cats (OR 0.42, p = 0.025). Among GBS-positive cats, the presence of concurrent
pancreatitis or intestinal thickening did not significantly increase the likelihood of NC/CH. A non-
significant trend was observed between elevated ALT and NC/CH in GBS-positive cats (OR
2.53, p = 0.135).
Conclusions and Relevance:
Gallbladder sludge is a frequent ultrasonographic finding in cats but does not reliably predict
biliary infection or inflammation. These findings suggest that GBS should not be used in
isolation to guide antimicrobial therapy or bile sampling. Clinical judgment and supporting
diagnostic data remain essential in evaluating suspected hepatobiliary disease.
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Details
- Title
- Gallbladder Sludge in Cats: Associations With Bile Culture, Liver Enzymes, and Cholangiohepatitis in 166 Cases
- Creators
- King Long Hannah Lee
- Contributors
- Yoko Ambrosini (Advisor)Jillian Haines (Advisor)Jillian Haines (Committee Member)Yoko Ambrosini (Committee Member)Sarah Guess (Committee Member)
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- College of Veterinary Medicine
- Theses and Dissertations
- Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
- Number of pages
- 32
- Identifiers
- 99901297395501842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Thesis