Fetal "Phrygian Cap" Gallbladder: Malformation or Deformation?

J Ultrasound Med. 2024 Mar;43(3):617-620. doi: 10.1002/jum.16382. Epub 2023 Nov 29.

Abstract

A series of five fetuses with a Phrygian cap gallbladder, a condition infrequently reported in the antenatal period, is reported. In all cases, examination of the fetal gallbladder displayed the characteristic folding of the fundus over the body. No associated findings were detected. The gallbladder length was longer than normal in all cases, suggesting that this anomaly could represent a deformity rather than a primary malformation. This might be caused by excessive longitudinal growth of the gallbladder, eventually folding after the fundus reaches the anterior border of the liver and is then diverted laterally by the abdominal wall.

Keywords: congenital anomalies; fetal gallbladder; fetal ultrasound; gallbladder anomalies; phrygian cap; prenatal diagnosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Fetus*
  • Gallbladder* / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Ultrasonography, Prenatal