Quality of life in patients with gallbladder polyps: a multicentre prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND: Patients with gallbladder polyps (GPs) are frequently subject to surveillance or cholecystectomy due to a risk of malignancy. As most GPs prove to be benign, potential overtreatment may impact quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to evaluate QoL in patients with GPs, compare it to the general population, and identify factors associated with QoL. METHODS: Patients diagnosed with GPs were included from 26 Dutch centres from 2018 to 2020, and followed until 2024. QoL was assessed at multiple time points using generic (EQ-5D) and disease-specific (GIQLI) instruments. Demographics, imaging, and surgical data were analysed. RESULTS: Among 207 patients, 42 (20.3 %) underwent cholecystectomy; neoplastic polyps were found in 3 (1.4 %). Overall, baseline EQ-5D scores were similar to the general population (0.85 vs 0.87; p = 0.20), while GIQLI scores were lower (116.1 vs 122.6; p < 0.001). Anxiety was reported by 39 % and was the strongest predictor of reduced QoL (EQ-5D: β = -0.095; GIQLI: β = -15.49; p < 0.001). QoL was not associated with GP characteristics. CONCLUSION: GPs are associated with reduced QoL, driven predominantly by anxiety. Structured counselling on low malignancy risk and less intensive surveillance may alleviate anxiety and reduce overtreatment.