Agenesis of the gallbladder

a diagnostic challenge

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To carry out a literature review considering publications related to gallbladder agenesis. Evaluating ultrasonography as a diagnostic method, as well as other methods of imaging diagnosis and the management of cases. METHODS: PubMed, Lilacs, IBECS, CVMED databases were searched with the following keywords: agenesis of gallbladder, ultrasound, diagnosis, in the last 5 years, in the english, spanish and portugueselanguages. RESULTS: The majority of cases of agenesis of the gallbladder were initially suspected by US examination. Other imaging tests were performed for diagnostic complementation, but final confirmation was predominantly performed through surgical exploration. CONCLUSION: Ultrasonography, despite technical limitations, is the first choice method for evaluation of the gallbladder and hepatobiliary diseases. Ultrasonography of the second and third trimesters of pregnancy may suggest agenesis of the gallbladder when the gallbladder is not seen. In the suspicion of Agenesis of the gallbladder, other more accurate methods should be used to confirm the diagnosis. Preoperative diagnosis is important to define the conduct and type of surgical exploration, reducing complications by prolonged procedures. Most cases of agenesis of the gallbladder are confirmed by laparoscopic surgical exploration or open surgery