Gallbladder polyps: Can they be cancerous?

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  • With Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist

    Michael Picco, M.D.

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Mayo Clinic Health Manager

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Question

Gallbladder polyps: Can they be cancerous?

Are gallbladder polyps associated with gallbladder cancer?

Answer

from Michael Picco, M.D.

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Ultrasound image of gallbladder polyps
Gallbladder polyps

Gallbladder polyps are growths that protrude from the lining of the inside of the gallbladder. Polyps can be cancerous, but they rarely are.

The size of a gallbladder polyp can be a useful predictor of whether it's cancerous (malignant) or noncancerous (benign). Gallbladder polyps that are smaller than 1 centimeter are usually noncancerous and require no treatment. However, your doctor may suggest follow-up examinations to look for changes in gallbladder polyps that may be an indication of cancer. This can be done using standard abdominal ultrasound or endoscopic ultrasound.

Gallbladder polyps that are larger than 1 centimeter are more likely to be cancerous. Treatment of larger gallbladder polyps may include surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). Your doctor may also recommend cholecystectomy if you have a gallbladder polyp of any size accompanied with gallstones.

References
  1. Feldman M, et al. Sleisenger & Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, Management. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2006:1454.

AN01044

March 31, 2009

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