Surveillance of Gallbladder Polyps: A Literature Review

Cureus. 2021 Jul 2;13(7):e16113. doi: 10.7759/cureus.16113. eCollection 2021 Jul.

Abstract

Little has been documented in existing literature regarding incidentally found gallbladder (GB) polyps. These clinically asymptomatic lesions are mostly benign, with only 5% progressing to malignancy. GB cancer, although rare, presents as an end-stage incurable disease. According to the current guidelines, cholecystectomy is recommended for polyps >10 mm in size for a better outcome. Thus, it is essential to know the clinical picture, surveillance, and treatment of these polyps earlier in the course of the disease to avoid the advancement of polyps to malignancy. This paper discusses the signs and symptoms, surveillance, treatment, and prognosis of GB polyps.

Keywords: benign; gallbladder polyps; gallbladder pseudopolyps; malignant polyps; surveillance.

Publication types

  • Review