Hepatobiliary and gallium imaging findings in gallbladder perforation: a case report and review of the literature

Clin Nucl Med. 1989 Feb;14(2):77-81. doi: 10.1097/00003072-198902000-00001.

Abstract

Gallbladder perforation is an unusual condition with a high mortality rate. Early detection with prompt surgical intervention can increase the survival rate. Hepatobiliary imaging using Technetium-99m-labeled iminodiacetic acid has been used for the diagnosis of gallbladder perforation. However, the results vary and are somewhat confusing. The authors report a case of gallbladder perforation with hepatobiliary imaging and an unusual gallium image; review the literature; and propose a classification of three different imaging patterns: 1) visualization of the gallbladder with bile leakage, 2) nonvisualization of the gallbladder with a photopenic fluid collection, and 3) nonvisualization of the gallbladder with bile leakage. These patterns may provide pathophysiologic information for surgeon.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Biliary Tract / diagnostic imaging*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Gallbladder Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Gallium Radioisotopes
  • Humans
  • Imino Acids
  • Liver / diagnostic imaging*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Organometallic Compounds
  • Radionuclide Imaging
  • Technetium Tc 99m Disofenin

Substances

  • Gallium Radioisotopes
  • Imino Acids
  • Organometallic Compounds
  • Technetium Tc 99m Disofenin