Formation and rupture of liver hematomas caused by intrahepatic gallbladder perforation: A case report and review of literature

BACKGROUND Gallbladder perforation is a serious complication of acute cholecystitis. Such perforation is a rare but life-threatening situation that can lead to the formation and rupture of liver hematomas. Here, we report a case of a ruptured intrahepatic hematoma caused by intrahepatic gallbladder perforation, and we present a literature review. CASE SUMMARY A 70-year-old male was admitted to the hospital with a complaint of right upper quadrant abdominal pain, flustering and dizziness. The preoperative diagnosis was a ruptured malignant liver tumor, and the patient’s medical images and increased level of carbohydrate antigen-199 suggested that the gallbladder had been invaded. However, the tumor was proven to be a liver hematoma secondary to gallbladder perforation after surgery. The patient was discharged uneventfully on the fifteenth postoperative day. CONCLUSION Intrahepatic gallbladder perforation is difficult to diagnose preoperatively. Radiological examinations play a crucial role in the diagnosis but only for partial cases. Early diagnosis and appropriate surgery are key to managing this rare condition.