Final answer:
The sonographic appearance of a porcelain gallbladder is characterized by a thickened and calcified wall. It appears as a hyperechoic structure on an ultrasound image. This condition is associated with chronic inflammation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sonographic appearance of a porcelain gallbladder (GB) is characterized by a thickened and calcified gallbladder wall. It appears as a hyperechoic, rigid, and immobile structure on the ultrasound image. This appearance is similar to the appearance of porcelain, which is a ceramic material that is fired at high temperatures to produce a smooth and glossy surface.
Porcelain GB is a rare condition that occurs when the gallbladder becomes extensively calcified. It is commonly associated with chronic inflammation, such as in cases of chronic cholecystitis. Sonographic findings of a porcelain GB can aid in the diagnosis of this condition and may influence the management of the patient.
It's important to note that the sonographic appearance of a porcelain GB is not specific to this condition and can be seen in other calcified structures in the abdomen.