Navigating diagnostic challenges in xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis: A case report

Xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis (XGC) presents a diagnostic challenge due to its rarity and varied clinical manifestations and nonspecific radiological findings. We here describe a 67-year-old man with right hypochondriac pain, where imaging revealed irregular thickening of the gallbladder wall, prompting consideration of various differential diagnoses including gallbladder malignancy, adenomyomatosis, and complicated cholecystitis. With inconclusive lab results, cholecystectomy with potential extended hepatectomy was advised. Intraoperatively, an inflamed gallbladder was observed. Histopathological examination confirmed XGC, stressing histological verification. Complete cholecystectomy is standard, with partial resection an option. Our case details the complexity in diagnosis and management of XGC.