Normal HIDA (65%) but pain with CCK + Classic RUQ symptoms - anyone had something similar?
Hi everyone—looking to hear from people who had gallbladder-type symptoms but unclear or mixed test results, and what it ended up being.
My wife (27F) has been dealing with this for about 2 years and we’re trying to figure out what could be going on.
Symptoms:
RUQ pain (under right rib)
Triggered by fatty foods
Triggered by movement/exercise
Occasionally radiates to right shoulder blade and right back
Fairly consistent pattern over time
Testing:
Multiple ultrasounds → normal (no stones, no inflammation)
MRCP + MRI → normal
Bloodwork (liver, lipase, etc.) → normal
EGD → mild chronic inflammation/gastritis only
HIDA scan:
EF = 65% (normal)
BUT pain was clearly reproduced during CCK infusion
Other findings:
Rapid gastric emptying
Tried omeprazole + antispasmodics → no help
Currently trying amitriptyline 10 mg(5 weeks, minimal effect so far, I’m curious if higher dose has helped anyone)
Main questions:
Has anyone here had normal imaging but pain reproduced during CCK, and what did it end up being?
Did your symptoms end up being gallbladder-related, functional, or something else?
What treatments (if any) actually helped?
Just trying to better understand this pattern and hear from others who had something similar.
Any insight or experiences would be greatly appreciated!!!
Posted Apr 24, 2026, 8:29 PM UTC