Final answer:
A distended gallbladder can become enlarged and merge with the liver, forming a palpable mass and producing a dull sound upon percussion. This condition often arises from obstructions such as gallstones and is diagnosed using tools like abdominal ultrasound.
Step-by-step explanation:
An obstructed distended gallbladder may merge with the liver, forming an oval mass below the liver edge and an area that is dull to percuss. The gallbladder is a small, hollow, pouch-like organ that stores and concentrates bile from the liver.
It lies just under the right side of the liver, connected through the cystic duct to the common bile duct. When the gallbladder is distended, typically due to gallstones or inflammation (cholecystitis), it can become enlarged and cause pain and discomfort.
Abdominal ultrasound is a diagnostic tool often used to detect issues with the gallbladder, such as gallstones or other blockages that could lead to distention.