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Abstract
Gallbladder
polyps are protrusions of
the mucosal lining into the
lumen, most commonly identified
incidentally during abdominal
imaging. While the majority
are benign, particularly cholesterol
and inflammatory polyps, certain
neoplastic types, such as
adenomas and adenocarcinomas,
present a risk for malignancy.
Prevalence estimates range
from 4% to 7%.
Risk
factors include age over 60,
Asian ethnicity and chronic
inflammatory conditions.
Ultrasound
remains the primary diagnostic
tool, with polyp characteristics
(size, echogenicity, and morphology)
guiding risk stratification.
Advanced imaging modalities
are reserved for suspected
malignancy. Current European
guidelines (2022) recommend
cholecystectomy for polyps
10 mm or smaller polyps in
symptomatic patients or those
with malignancy risk factors.
Histological
analysis is essential for
definitive diagnosis and to
exclude cancer
Although most polyps are clinically
insignificant, accurate classification
and vigilance is required.
Keywords:
gallbladder polyps, characteristics,
abdominal imaging
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