Which condition is characterized by a thickened gallbladder wall on ultrasound?

Cholecystitis is characterized by inflammation of the gallbladder, often due to the presence of gallstones, which can obstruct the cystic duct. On ultrasound, this condition is typically identified by a thickened gallbladder wall, usually measuring greater than 3 mm. The thickening is a response to the inflammation and can also be associated with other findings such as gallstones, pericholecystic fluid, or signs of tenderness during the ultrasound examination.

The thickening of the gallbladder wall in cholecystitis is a key diagnostic feature, helping to distinguish it from other conditions that might involve the liver or gallbladder but do not cause this specific wall change. Other factors that may contribute to gallbladder wall thickening in different conditions, such as cirrhosis or fatty liver disease, do not typically lead to the significant localized thickening seen in cholecystitis.