Understanding the Phrygian Cap Gallbladder: Common Congenital Variation and Its Implications

A Phrygian cap gallbladder is a congenital fold of the gallbladder fundus. It shows up in about 4% of people, can look like a liver mass on imaging, and is not a disease. Treat only if it produces biliary symptoms. See also the TPE case note on Phrygian cap gallbladder.

What is a Phrygian cap gallbladder?

A congenital abnormality of the gallbladder, found in 4% of the population. The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver. Variations can occur in form, location, or number. The Phrygian cap is the most common of those anomalies.

Can a Phrygian cap look like a liver mass?

On imaging it can mimic a liver mass, leading to potential misinterpretation. Despite the unusual appearance, it is not considered pathological and typically does not cause symptoms.

Does a Phrygian cap gallbladder need treatment?

Not by itself. It is not a disease or a harmful condition. Surgical intervention is unnecessary unless it results in symptoms such as biliary colic or cholecystitis.

Phrygian cap gallbladder at a glance

• What is it? A congenital abnormality of the gallbladder.
• Incidence: Found in 4% of the population.
• Appearance on imaging: Can mimic a liver mass, leading to potential misinterpretation.
• Pathological significance: None. It is not a disease or a harmful condition.
• Symptoms: Typically none. If it causes biliary colic or cholecystitis, medical intervention might be needed.
• Location: The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver.
• Other gallbladder anomalies: Variations can occur in form, location, or number.

FAQ

What is a Phrygian cap gallbladder? A congenital fold of the gallbladder, present in about 4% of people.

Does it need treatment? Not by itself. It is not a disease. Intervene if it causes biliary colic or cholecystitis.