Guide To The Conditions That Affect The Gallbladder

Gallbladder Polyps

Gallbladder polyps occur when an individual has an abnormal tissue growth that features a stalk that grows inside the gallbladder from its interior lining. Polyps that grow in the gallbladder can be malignant. However, ninety-five percent of all gallbladder polyps are benign. The likelihood of malignancy presence in a gallbladder polyp increases as the polyp size increases. Polyps in the gallbladder that are greater than .75 inches in size have a high chance of being malignant. In addition, polyps greater than .5 inches have an increased risk of malignancy. Those that are less than .5 inches are rarely malignant. Symptoms of gallbladder polyps include vomiting, nausea, and occasional hypochondrium.

These polyps are diagnosed using a physical examination, abdominal ultrasound, and endoscopic ultrasound. Treatment relies upon how large the abnormal growths are and may include regular monitoring with ultrasounds, surgical gallbladder removal, diet changes, and prescription or over-the-counter pain medication.

Learn more about the different conditions that affect the gallbladder now.