SISTER MARY JOSEPHS NODULE FOLLOWING LAPAROSCOPIC CHOLECYSTECTOMY : A CASE REPORT

Background:Sister Mary Joseph Nodule (SMJN) is a rare umbilical lesion indicative of advanced intra-abdominal malignancy. Its occurrence after surgery for presumed benign disease is exceptional.

Case Presentation:An 80-year-old female underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy for gallstone disease. Postoperative histopathology revealed gallbladder adenocarcinoma (pT3). Seven weeks later, she developed umbilical pain and swelling. Clinical examination revealed an ulcerated umbilical lesion consistent with SMJN. Imaging showed no distant metastasis or ascites. Surgical excision and exploration revealed generalized peritoneal carcinomatosis.

Discussion and Conclusion:SMJN, though rare, is an important clinical sign that indicates advanced malignancy even after surgery for presumed benign disease. Its early recognition is crucial, as it reflects peritoneal dissemination and limits curative options, guiding timely initiation of palliative care.