The variable appearances of fetal gallstones.

Abstract

Only four cases of fetal gallstones have been reported previously, which implies that this condition is rare. Gallstones in children have been reported more frequently, and it may be that some of these are present in fetal life. Over a 12 month period in this department, seven cases of gallstones or sludge were seen within the fetal gallbladder. The variable appearances of fetal cholelithiasis are described and the possible causes discussed. Fetal gallstones may not be as rare as indicated by the paucity of cases in the literature.