A STUDY ON ULTRASONOGRAPHIC EVALUATION OF GALLBLADDER MOTOR FUNCTION IN INTRAHEPATIC CHOLESTASIS OF PREGNANCY: A CASE CONTROL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is associated with impaired bile acid metabolism, potentially affecting gallbladder motility. Objective: To evaluate gallbladder motor function in ICP patients using ultrasonography compared to healthy pregnantcontrols. Methods: A case-control study of 33 ICP patients and 33 healthy pregnant women (matched for gestational age). Gallbladder volume was measured via ultrasound in fasting and postprandial states (30, 60, and 90 mins after a standardized meal). Gallbladder ejection fraction (GBEF) was calculated. Results: ICP patients showed significantly reduced GBEF (%) compared to controls (p < 0.05). Fasting gallbladder volume was similar, but postprandial contraction was impaired in ICP. Conclusion: ICP is associated with gallbladder dysmotility, possibly contributing to symptoms like pruritus and postprandial discomfort.