The natural history and significance of ultrasonographically defined polypoid lesions of the gallbladder in children

Background/Purpose

Gallbladder polyps are relatively common in adults and may increase the risk of gallbladder cancer. The increased use of high-quality abdominal ultrasonography has likely led to the increase detection of these lesions in the pediatric population. The aim of the present study was to address the significance of the ultrasonographic finding of a gallbladder polyp in children.

Methods

This prospective case series of 4 children with ultrasonographically defined gallbladder polyps outlines their presentation and clinical course. A detailed review of the literature and a management approach has been provided.

Results

In the 4 cases, polyps were followed for 2, 5, 72, and 84 months with a clinical follow-up of 7 to 11 years. Three underwent cholecystectomy and only 1 of 3 had a polypoid gallbladder lesion. One child, followed for 7 years, had no change in size, shape, or location of the polyp. This case series adds to the small group of children in the literature with polypoid gallbladder lesions and, to our knowledge, none have developed malignant transformation.

Conclusions

Clearly more studies on such children are required to further add to our knowledge on the natural history and the appropriate management of these lesions.