What causes gallbladder polyps

The gallbladder, a small organ adjacent to the liver, it has a role in the digestive system because it stores and releases bile.

In this blog, we will explore the various factors contributing to the development of gallbladder polyps and their treatment.

What are gallbladder polyps? 

Gallbladder polyps are growths or lesions that protrude from the lining of the gallbladder, the small organ situated under the liver that stores bile produced by the liver. 

These polyps may vary in size and number. They may be attached to the gallbladder wall by a stalk or sessile (without a stalk).

The three primary types of gallbladder polyps include:

• Pseudopolyps, or cholesterol polyps, are the most prevalent, accounting for 60–90% of all gallbladder polyps. Pseudopolyps are noncancerous, cholesterol-filled growths in the gallbladder wall.
• Inflammatory polyps make up for 5–10% of all gallbladder polyps. These are typically benign and are associated with inflammation in the gallbladder wall. 
• True gallbladder polyps are actual growths of new tissue. These are rare and have the potential to become cancerous.

What causes gallbladder polyps?

Gallbladder polyps can develop due to various factors, though the exact cause isn’t always clear. Here are some potential contributors:

• Age: The risk of developing gallbladder polyps increases with age, with a greater prevalence in individuals over 50.

• Cholesterol: People with high cholesterol or salt levels in their bile are at an increased risk of developing gallbladder polyps. 

• Chronic Inflammation: Conditions causing persistent inflammation of the gallbladder, like chronic cholecystitis or the presence of gallstones, may trigger the growth of inflammatory polyps.

• Overweight: Being overweight is linked to an increased risk of gallbladder polyps.

• Medical Conditions: Certain health conditions may heighten the risk of developing genuine gallbladder polyps:
  • Familial polyposis, an inherited condition
  • Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, a genetic condition
  • Gardner syndrome, a type of familial polyposis
  • Hepatitis B, a type of viral infection

Also Read: Gallbladder Removal Surgery And Its Recovery Time

What are the symptoms of gallbladder polyps? 

Gallbladder polyps often occur without symptoms. They are diagnosed when tests are done for some other illness or during a routine check-up. They can be seen on ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans.

Symptoms that gallbladder polyps can sometimes cause include:

• Right upper abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Indigestion
• Bloating

What complications do gallbladder polyps cause?

The majority of gallbladder polyps are either pseudopolyps or inflammatory polyps. These do not lead to complications and are not linked with cancer.

However, doctors regularly monitor all gallbladder polyps, irrespective of their type. Removal of the gallbladder is necessary only if you experience symptoms or a polyp grows larger than 1 cm.

The most concerning complication associated with true gallbladder polyps is the potential development of gallbladder cancer.

Some gallbladder cancer symptoms to look out for:

• Feeling a lump in the abdominal area
• Having a high body temperature or feeling chills or feverish
• Presence of jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes
• Noticing a reduced appetite
• Unintentional weight loss
• Being sick or feeling ill
• Sharp abdominal pain
• Sensation of a dragging or pulling feeling on the right side of the abdomen
• Swelling of the abdomen not associated with eating or feeling full

How are gallbladder polyps diagnosed?

Gallbladder polyps are usually found by chance during an ultrasound of the abdomen. 

If you’re having symptoms related to your gallbladder, your doctor will likely start with an ultrasound to look for gallstones or polyps. 

Although ultrasound can spot polyps, it might not give enough detail. In that case, your doctor might recommend more advanced tests like a MRI.

How are gallbladder polyps treated?

The treatment of gallbladder polyps depends on various factors, such as the size of the polyps, the presence of symptoms, and the risk of malignancy. 

Here are some common treatment options for gallbladder polyps:

Observation: 

If the polyps are small (typically less than 5 mm) and do not cause any symptoms, doctors may choose to monitor them with regular ultrasound scans to check for any changes over time.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: 

If the polyps are large (usually greater than 1 cm), there are related symptoms or if there’s a suspicion of cancer, surgical removal of the gallbladder or laparoscopic cholecystectomy may be recommended.

This minimally invasive procedure involves creating multiple small incisions in the abdomen. Surgical instruments and a camera are then inserted through these incisions to extract the gallbladder. This method is preferred for its quicker recovery time and reduced scarring.

Consult Dr. Daniel Serralta for gallbladder polyp treatment in Dubai

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have concerns about gallbladder polyps, it’s crucial to consult a specialist for proper evaluation and treatment. 

Dr. Daniel Serralta, a renowned proctologist and laparoscopic surgeon in Dubai, offers expert care for patients dealing with abdominal and gastrointestinal issues. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Daniel provides personalized treatment plans to address gallbladder polyps and other related conditions. 

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Daniel Serralta for comprehensive gallbladder polyp treatment in Dubai.