Computed tomography of xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Radiology
• Pathology

Background:

• Gallbladder carcinoma is a malignancy with often poor prognosis.
• Xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis (XGC) is a rare, benign inflammatory condition of the gallbladder.

Observation:

• A case of XGC presented with imaging findings indistinguishable from gallbladder cancer on computed tomography (CT).
• The large, infiltrating mass on CT met established criteria for advanced gallbladder carcinoma.

Findings:

• Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis.
• The imaging features of XGC can closely resemble those of gallbladder carcinoma, posing a diagnostic challenge.

Implications:

• Radiologists and clinicians should include XGC in the differential diagnosis for large, infiltrating gallbladder masses seen on CT.
• Accurate preoperative diagnosis is crucial for appropriate patient management and avoiding unnecessary radical surgery.