Gallbladder Polyp
A gallbladder polyp is a small growth projecting from the inner lining of the gallbladder. Most polyps are benign and discovered incidentally during imaging done for unrelated symptoms. While many are harmless cholesterol polyps, larger or rapidly growing polyps may carry a small risk of malignancy, making accurate imaging and follow-up important. Most people with gallbladder polyps experience no symptoms.
What is it?
Gallbladder polyps are growths that extend from the inner wall of the gallbladder into its cavity. Most are benign cholesterol deposits, but others may represent inflammatory tissue, adenomas, or, rarely, early gallbladder cancer. The size, shape, and number of polyps help guide management, with larger polyps having a higher likelihood of harboring abnormal cells.
Ultrasound is the most common imaging tool used to detect polyps and measure their size. Radiologists assess whether the polyp is sessile (broad-based) or pedunculated (on a stalk), whether it shows rapid growth, and if there are associated gallstones or gallbladder wall changes. These features help determine whether monitoring or surgical evaluation is appropriate.
Important to Know
Most gallbladder polyps smaller than 6 mm are benign and need only periodic imaging follow-up. Polyps that are 10 mm or larger, growing, or associated with symptoms may require closer evaluation because of the increased risk of malignancy. People with certain risk factors—such as primary sclerosing cholangitis—may also need more frequent monitoring.
Red flag symptoms include persistent right upper abdominal pain, jaundice, fever, or unexplained weight loss, which may indicate a more serious underlying condition. Treatment decisions depend on polyp size, appearance, and changes over time. Many patients are managed with noninvasive imaging follow-up, while others benefit from gallbladder removal if the risk of cancer is higher.