What is multiple gallbladder polypoid lesions?

Multiple gallbladder polyps refer to lesions in which two or more protruding tissues appear on the inner lining of the gallbladder wall. These are mostly benign, with cholesterol and inflammatory polyps being common. A small number of adenomatous polyps carry a risk of malignant transformation, and there are individual differences in the size and growth rate of the lesions. Medical attention is recommended if the polyp diameter exceeds 1 cm or if abdominal pain occurs.

Most patients have cholesterol polyps, which form due to cholesterol deposition from bile. These are typically less than 1 cm in diameter, asymptomatic, and carry a low risk of malignancy. Inflammatory polyps arise from chronic cholecystitis and are often accompanied by thickening of the gallbladder wall. Although adenomatous polyps are rare, their risk of malignant transformation increases when they exceed 1 cm in diameter, have a broad base, or grow rapidly within a short period.

Treatment should be determined based on the characteristics of the polyps. For asymptomatic polyps smaller than 1 cm, ultrasound follow-up every 6–12 months is recommended. Surgical removal of the gallbladder is advised for polyps larger than 1 cm, those growing rapidly, or those causing symptoms, in order to prevent malignant changes. Medication may only be used to relieve inflammation-related symptoms and cannot eliminate polyps.

In daily life, maintain a light diet, reduce intake of animal offal and fried foods, take a walk after meals to promote digestion, keep a regular sleep schedule, and avoid staying up late to reduce gallbladder strain and support normal gallbladder function.