A rare case report: Gallbladder-associated ectopic liver tissue: Challenges, insights, and surgical considerations

Introduction and importance: Ectopic liver tissue (ELT), a rare anomaly distinct from accessory liver, challenges conventional embryonic morphogenesis. Unlike the latter, ELT lacks a connection to the main liver, showcasing an unusual growth of normal liver tissue beyond its customary location. This peculiarity poses clinical and radiological challenges for surgeons throughout their careers, particularly during laparoscopic or open procedures. Elevated clinical significance arises from ELT's potential to progress into hepatocellular carcinoma, necessitating heightened awareness among surgeons. Case report: This article presents a compelling case of ELT, discovered incidentally during a planned laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The patient, a 60-year-old female with a history of biliary colic, underwent a meticulous exploration revealing an undistended gallbladder with an unexpected brownish tissue fragment resembling hepatic parenchyma. Clinical discussion: Ectopic liver tissue, dating back to early 20th-century records, challenges precise incidence determination. Theories regarding embryonic development around the fourth week in utero provide insights into ELT's origins and displacement from the hepatic diverticulum. Varied attachment locations and potential manifestations in other intra-abdominal and intra-thoracic sites add layers to the complexity of its diagnosis. Radiological studies, though challenging, offer glimpses of ELT, cautioning against percutaneous biopsies due to associated risks. Conclusion: In conclusion, this case of ELT offers valuable insights into its diagnostic challenges and surgical considerations, underscoring the need for continued research and heightened awareness in the medical community. The rarity and varied presentations of ELT warrant ongoing exploration to refine diagnostic approaches and optimize patient outcomes.