What are the types of gallbladder polypoid lesions?
Nov 05, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
Polypoid lesions of the gallbladder refer to a general term for lesions that protrude or elevate from the inner mucosal surface of the gallbladder wall into the gallbladder lumen. They are not a single disease, but mainly include cholesterol polyps, inflammatory polyps, adenomatous polyps, adenomyomatous hyperplasia polyps, and lymphoid polyps. Patients should maintain a low-fat diet in daily life, avoid overeating, and reduce stimulation of the gallbladder.
Polyplike lesions of the gallbladder refer to a general term for lesions that protrude or elevate from the inner surface of the gallbladder wall into the gallbladder cavity. They are not a single disease, but mainly include cholesterol polyps, inflammatory polyps, adenomatous polyps, adenomyomatous hyperplastic polyps, lymphoid polyps, and other types. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Cholesterol polyps: These are the most common type, usually caused by abnormal cholesterol metabolism in bile, leading to deposition of cholesterol crystals on the gallbladder mucosa. The polyps are typically multiple, small in diameter (generally less than 1 cm), soft in texture, yellowish in color, and smooth-surfaced. Most do not undergo malignant transformation.
2. Inflammatory polyps: Often triggered by recurrent episodes of chronic cholecystitis, these polyps form when the gallbladder mucosa proliferates and elevates due to inflammatory stimulation. They may be solitary or multiple, usually small in size, with possible inflammatory exudate on the surface. Patients may experience symptoms of chronic cholecystitis, such as dull pain in the right upper abdomen and abdominal distension.
3. Adenomatous polyps: These are benign tumors of the gallbladder, arising from hyperplasia of the glandular epithelium of the gallbladder mucosa. They are usually solitary and relatively larger in diameter, with some exceeding 1 cm. They are firmer in texture and may have a smooth or lobulated surface. This type carries a certain risk of malignant transformation, which increases with larger polyp size.
4. Adenomyomatous hyperplastic polyps: Also known as gallbladder adenomyosis, this condition results from abnormal proliferation of glands and muscle layers in the gallbladder wall. The polyp-like lesion is essentially a localized thickening and bulging of the gallbladder wall. Lesions commonly occur in the fundus or body of the gallbladder and may be associated with impaired gallbladder contractile function.
5. Lymphoid polyps: Relatively rare, these arise from hyperplasia of lymphoid tissue within the gallbladder wall and are often related to chronic inflammation or immune system responses. The polyps are typically small, solitary or multiple, soft in texture, and smooth-surfaced. They usually cause no obvious symptoms and have an extremely low risk of malignancy. Most cases require no specific intervention and can be managed with regular follow-up.
In daily life, patients should maintain a low-fat diet, avoid overeating, reduce gallbladder irritation, and undergo regular abdominal ultrasound examinations to monitor changes in the size, number, and morphology of the polyps. If significant polyp growth or accompanying symptoms are detected, timely medical evaluation and appropriate measures should be taken according to professional advice.
