Gallbladder mucinous cystic neoplasm: Diagnostic challenges and multimodality imaging correlation

TL;DR

This case report highlights the diagnostic challenges of a rare gallbladder tumor that mimicked a benign condition, emphasizing the need for histopathology to confirm the diagnosis.

Contribution

The paper presents a rare case of gallbladder mucinous cystic neoplasm mimicking a multiseptated gallbladder, emphasizing diagnostic pitfalls and the role of histopathology.

Findings

A 41-year-old female presented with biliary obstruction and imaging findings resembling a multiseptated gallbladder.

Histopathology revealed a large mucinous tumor of the gallbladder and common bile duct after surgery.

The case highlights the importance of considering neoplastic causes in atypical gallbladder imaging findings.

Abstract

Mucinous cystic neoplasm of the gallbladder is a rare, though generally benign, entity typically diagnosed following cholecystectomy due to its nonspecific clinical presentation and imaging characteristics. This case report describes an unusual presentation of mucinous cystic neoplasm of the gallbladder mimicking a multiseptated gallbladder, wherein a 41-year-old female presented with biliary obstruction. Imaging studies revealed a gallbladder with features resembling a multiseptated gallbladder, a rare congenital variant. Consequently, the patient was scheduled for elective cholecystectomy. Intraoperative findings and histopathological examination of the resected gallbladder unexpectedly revealed a large mucinous tumor of the gallbladder and common bile duct. This case underscores the importance of considering neoplastic etiology in the differential diagnosis of atypical gallbladder imaging findings, especially in the presence of biliary obstruction, and highlights the critical role of histopathology in establishing a definitive diagnosis. Early identification and appropriate surgical intervention are essential for improving patient outcomes.

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