Gallbladder Polyps: Benign Bystanders or Malignant Precursors? Defining the Path from Detection to Treatment

Vollständiger Abstract

Worum geht es in dieser Arbeit?

Gallbladder polyps (GP) are defined as elevations of gallbladder wall that protrude into the lumen. These elevations are commonly detected incidentally during abdominal ultrasonography and predominantly asymptomatic. Based on malignant potential, gallbladder polyps are broadly classified into neoplastic and non-neoplastic types. Although most cases remain clinically silent, some patients may present with right upper quadrant pain, localized tenderness, and, in certain instances, a palpable mass in the upper abdomen. Abdominal ultrasound (US) remains the primary modality for both diagnosis and surveillance of gallbladder polyps. In general, a polyp size of ≥10 mm serves as a key threshold for considering cholecystectomy. However, additional risk factors such as age 60 years, primary sclerosing cholangitis, Asian ethnicity, and sessile morphology should also be considered in clinical decision-making. Therefore, this review aimed to enhance clinical awareness and inform appropriate management strategies for patients with gallbladder polyps.