cholesterol polyposis(gallbladder)
Last reviewed 01/2018
Cholesterol polyposis of the gallbladder is a local form of cholesterosis in which cholesterol laden polyps protrude into the gallbladder. The polyps have similar histology to the submucous aggregates seen in "strawberry gallbladder", but the lesions are less numerous and larger. They are easily detached when the gallbladder is handled at surgery and may seed the formation of gallstones.
The polyps may be associated with gallbladder pain, but it is uncertain as to whether this is caused by the polyps per se or whether it is a manifesation of functional gallbladder disease. On a cholecystogram, they are seen as negative shadows adjacent to the gallbladder wall. Treatment is by cholecystectomy.