Table 1.
Risk factors for malignant gallbladder polyps
|
Risk factor
|
Description
|
Evidence and references
|
| Polyp size > 10 mm | Larger polyps have a higher risk of malignancy | In adults, polyps ≥ 10 mm have a 5.9% risk of gallbladder cancer; similar trends were observed in pediatric cases[17] |
| Sessile morphology | Sessile polyps are more likely to be malignant compared to pedunculated ones | Adult studies show sessile polyps increase malignancy risk by a factor of 7.32[16] |
| Associated genetic syndromes | Conditions like Peutz–Jeghers syndrome and metachromatic leukodystrophy may increase risk[14,15] | Pediatric cases with these syndromes have been noted to have GBPs with potential for malignancy |
| Presence of gallstones | Coexistence of gallstones may elevate the risk of malignancy[17] | Some studies suggest an increased risk, though evidence is not conclusive |
| Age > 50 years | Older age is a known risk factor for gallbladder cancer in adults; relevance in children is unclear[16] | Adult studies indicate increased malignancy risk with age over 50[16] |
GBPs: Gallbladder polyps.