Evaluation of gallbladder wall thickening: a multimodality imaging approach

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Gastroenterology
• Oncology

Background:

• Gallbladder (GB) wall thickening is a common imaging finding.
• Unlike gallstones, GB wall thickening lacks clear management guidelines.
• Characterizing GB wall thickening remains a diagnostic challenge despite advanced imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current literature on imaging investigations for GB wall thickening.
• To differentiate benign from malignant GB wall thickening using imaging modalities.
• To assess the effectiveness of various imaging techniques.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of imaging investigations for GB wall thickening.
• Analysis of criteria differentiating benign and malignant GB wall thickening.
• Evaluation of transabdominal ultrasonography, MRI with gadolinium and diffusion-weighted sequences.

Main Results:

• Transabdominal ultrasonography is the initial investigation.
• MRI with gadolinium and diffusion-weighted sequences is preferred for characterization.
• Current imaging criteria offer moderate accuracy in differentiating benign and malignant thickening.

Conclusions:

• Accurate characterization of GB wall thickening is challenging.
• Advanced techniques like contrast-enhanced ultrasound and elastography are evolving.
• A standardized reporting system is needed for GB wall thickening, especially in high-risk areas.