Understanding multiseptated gallbladder: A systematic analysis with a case report

Multiseptated gallbladder (MSG) (also known as “Honeycomb gallbladder”) is a rare condition that was first described by Knetsch in 1952, and there are around 150 cases described over the world. MSG has been described as a congenital anomaly in most of the cases and as acquired in a few. Moreover, the phenomenon was described with a variety of different symptoms and management. The aim of this article is to have better understanding of this condition and management approach. We are reporting a 4-year-old girl, who presented to Sidra Medicine, Qatar with MSG. We have also included 97 cases for review and analysis. The median age of presentation of the condition was 27 years but may present in neonates and in the elderly, while gender was not a risk factor. Abdominal pain is the most common presenting symptom, but it can present without symptoms. Certain congenital anomalies were detected in the pancreaticobiliary system in few patients with MSG. Medical treatment was reported in eight symptomatic patients, four of whom failed therapy. Cholecystectomy was performed in 40 patients, which resulted in resolutions of symptoms in 13 of them. Based on the available literature, congenital MSG is probably due to in-pouching of gallbladder wall to its own cavity forming septa containing muscular fibers. MSG can be diagnosed solely via imaging, and ultrasound appears to be an effective and feasible mode of diagnosis. Medical treatment efficacy is not well-known, but cholecystectomy has resulted in complete resolution in symptomatic patients.