Empyema Gallbladder is often found in the case of acute cholecystitis. Empyema develops in the presence of bacteria-containing bile may progress to suppurative infection in which the gallbladder fills with purulent material, an ailment referred to as empyema of the gallbladder. The main cause of cholecystitis involves obstruction of the cystic duct, which causes the buildup of infected fluid. Systemic antibiotics and urgent drainage or resection are required to lessen the incidence of complications and also to avoid or treat associated sepsis. Many times it is found during routine laparoscopic cholecystectomy.