Gallbladder hydrops, also called mucocele of the gallbladder, is a condition in which the gallbladder becomes markedly distended with mucus or clear fluid due to prolonged obstruction of the cystic duct, usually by a gallstone. Unlike acute cholecystitis, hydrops develops gradually and the gallbladder wall may not show the inflammatory thickening seen in acute disease. On ultrasound, the gallbladder appears significantly enlarged, often measuring more than 10 centimeters in length, and is filled with anechoic or mildly echogenic fluid. In children, gallbladder hydrops can occur in association with Kawasaki disease. Recognizing this condition is important because the overdistended gallbladder is at risk of ischemia and perforation.
Sonography Term