Gallbladder mucinous cystic neoplasm: Diagnostic challenges and multimodality imaging correlation

Mucinous cystic neoplasm of the gallbladder is a rare, though generally benign, entity typically diagnosed following cholecystectomy due to its nonspecific clinical presentation and imaging characteristics. This case report describes an unusual presentation of mucinous cystic neoplasm of the gallbladder mimicking a multiseptated gallbladder, wherein a 41-year-old female presented with biliary obstruction. Imaging studies revealed a gallbladder with features resembling a multiseptated gallbladder, a rare congenital variant. Consequently, the patient was scheduled for elective cholecystectomy. Intraoperative findings and histopathological examination of the resected gallbladder unexpectedly revealed a large mucinous tumor of the gallbladder and common bile duct. This case underscores the importance of considering neoplastic etiology in the differential diagnosis of atypical gallbladder imaging findings, especially in the presence of biliary obstruction, and highlights the critical role of histopathology in establishing a definitive diagnosis. Early identification and appropriate surgical intervention are essential for improving patient outcomes.