The presence of gallbladder varices raises suspicion for which condition?

The presence of gallbladder varices is indicative of increased pressure in the portal venous system, often associated with conditions that lead to portal hypertension. Specifically, portal vein thrombosis can result in the obstruction of normal blood flow through the portal vein, leading to the formation of collateral veins, such as varices around the gallbladder. These varices represent an attempt by the body to bypass the obstruction and maintain venous drainage.

In contrast, while acute hepatitis and peliosis hepatitis can cause liver damage and may contribute to portal hypertension, they do not directly result in the presence of gallbladder varices as a primary finding. Choledocholithiasis, or the presence of bile stones in the common bile duct, typically leads to different complications and would not specifically cause gallbladder varices. Thus, portal vein thrombosis directly correlates with the formation of gallbladder varices due to the resultant increased portal pressure.