Intracholecystic papillary neoplasm: A case report

Abstract

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: More needs to be understood concerning the natural progression and visual attributes of intracholecystic papillary neoplasm. Its longevity, especially the rate at which it transitions from benign to malignant growths, remains ambiguous. Consequently, it is imperative to elucidate the intrinsic progression of this precancerous lesion in the gallbladder. CASE PRESENTATION: A 70-year-old North African woman arrived at the emergency department with abdominal pain, anorexia, and weight loss. The patient's physical examination showed favourable results for abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and constipation. A CT scan revealed a heterogeneous fundic tissue mass within the gallbladder, which indicated a cholecystectomy due to clinical manifestations and suspicion of a neoplastic disease. The patient underwent a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, and the removed gallbladder was addressed for pathological analysis, revealing an intracholecystic papillary neoplasm. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Intracholecystic papillary neoplasm (ICPN) is a rare precancerous tumour affecting middle-aged women aged 38 to 83. It is characterized by raised projections of the lining epithelium in the gallbladder cavity, with a prominent mucinous substance. ICPN can be diagnosed using ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI. Treatment usually involves surgical removal of the gallbladder, known as cholecystectomy, and histological analysis to determine the tumour's stage and grade. Early detection is crucial for preventing the progression of ICPN into invasive carcinoma. CONCLUSION: Due to the rarity of ICPN, more data are needed to establish more effective diagnostic procedures and screening criteria. The main objective of reporting this case is to increase awareness of this rare and potentially fatal tumour.