Primary Signet Ring Cell Carcinoma of the Gallbladder Mimicking Calculous Cholecystitis / 대한췌담도학회지

ABSTRACT

Signet ring cell carcinoma is a rare form of gallbladder cancer and has a worse prognosis. Since few cases have been reported, information regarding the behavior and prognosis of the gallbladder carcinoma is limited. About twenty four cases of gallbladder signet ring cell carcinoma have been reported so far. We present a rare case of primary signet ring cell carcinoma of the gallbladder. A 58-year-old male presented with epigastric pain. Abdominal computed tomography showed diffuse gallbladder wall thickening with enhancement, gallstones, and choledocholithiasis. After endoscopic treatment of choledocholithiasis, laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed. Pathologic examination of the resected gallbladder revealed adenocarcinoma of signet ring cell type in the epithelium. Immunohistochemical stain for cytokeratin 7 was positive for tumor cells. The final pathologic diagnosis was primary signet ring cell carcinoma of the gallbladder. Lymph node metastasis was detected and he received chemotherapy and radiotherapy. After one year of follow-up, bone metastasis in the lumbar spine and malignant ascites were found. The patient is being provided with palliative care.