Can a gallbladder polyp turn into cancer in the future?

Question

Hello doctor,

I had an ultrasound abdomen done due to some urine issues. In the findings, they observed gallbladder polyp. I am very scared as I read online that these may turn into cancer in the future.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your reports. (attachment removed to protect patient identity).

As per them, there are multiple polyps measuring 1 to 3 mm. And as per history, you are asymptomatic. Usually, polyps larger than 2 cm are almost malignant and need surgery. While polyps less than 6 mm are usually cholesterol polyp. They usually never turn malignant.

As per the study of around 150 patients with polyps less than 5 mm. Only 13 needed surgery for pain and none were malignant. Almost all remained stable in size or decreased.

So for your case, I think there is no need to worry. Just you can do follow up USG (ultrasound) after six months to look for size. Also as per your records, your BMI (body mass index) is on the higher side as per Indian standards. As obesity is also a risk factor for cholesterol polyps. Weight reduction by 4-6 kg and diet modification to reduce fat intake is desirable.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I think the answer to this question is above only. Review of 203 patients with gallbladder polyps, 143 patients had polyp diameters less than 5 mm. On follow-up, these polyps were unchanged or decreased in size. If in your case the reason for polyp is cholesterolosis, chances of increase in size are slim.

Answer 3

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

LDL (low-density lipoproteins) is a bit on the higher side otherwise it looks fine. I think weight reduction and diet modification should help. No need for medication currently to reduce cholesterol.

Answer 4

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It is not that for having cholesterolosis you have to have high cholesterol. There is no definite relationship. High cholesterol, weight, fatty food, genetics, family history all these are risk factors. But that does not mean if these are absent you will not have. In short, your numbers are not too high to say that this is the definite cause. As such numbers are very common in our population. But I can say that this is also a contributory cause on which we can control.