Porcelain Gallbladder: Why It Matters
Porcelain gallbladder refers to calcification of the gallbladder wall after chronic inflammation. Its characteristic imaging appearance and association with cancer put it in a special evaluation group.
How does it develop?
Long-standing chronic cholecystitis leads to calcium deposition in the wall. Most patients also have gallstones.
Symptoms
It is usually silent and discovered incidentally on ultrasound, CT or plain film. Some patients have chronic right-upper-quadrant discomfort.
Why it matters
- Increased risk of gallbladder cancer
- Diagnostic difficulty
- Coexisting stones and chronic inflammation
Treatment
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is generally recommended, especially for patchy (selective) calcification and mucosal changes. The decision is individual and risk-based.
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Contact & Information
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