Objective:

To analyze the ultrasonic and contrast-enhanced ultrasonic characteristics of xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis (XGC).

Methods:

Totally 15 cases of XGC confirmed by surgical pathology in the last 3 years were reviewed and their ultrasonic and contrast-enhanced ultrasonic data were retrospectively analyzed.

Results:

Seven cases had diffuse gallbladder wall thickening in (47%)

2 had local thickening (13%)

5 had nodular lesions (33%). There were 13 cases combined with gallstones (87%)

6 with gallbladder calculi incarceration (40%)

7 turbid bile

and biliary sludge formation

(47%). The gallbladder walls of XGC after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) were thickened obviously [(12.556.36) mm

]

accompanied by gallstone and biliary sludge formation. After the injection of Sono Vue

the lesion of XGC was vasualized later than normal gallbladder walls in 3 cases

and the intensity of enhancement was lower than liver tissues.

Conclusion:

The ultrasonic and contrast-enhanced ultrasonic features of XGC have clinical significance.