Cholesterolosis of the gallbladder occurs when tiny deposits of cholesterol collect in the lining of your gallbladder. Unlike gallstones, which are solid, these patches are soft and often go unnoticed. Most people discover cholesterolosis incidentally during an ultrasound or while being treated for another issue.
Many patients have no symptoms. When signs do appear, they can include:
The exact cause of cholesterolosis is not fully understood, but several factors may raise your risk:
At GastroDoxs in Houston, our board-certified gastroenterologists combine clinical expertise with compassionate, patient‐centered care to diagnose and manage cholesterolosis of the gallbladder and other digestive conditions. We offer clear explanations, personalized treatment plans, and convenient scheduling to put you on the path to long-term relief. Ready to take charge of your digestive health? Book your appointment today and let our team guide you every step of the way.
We've successfully treated more than 536 patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Cholesterolosis of the gallbladder is a condition where cholesterol-rich fat deposits form in the gallbladder lining, creating tiny patches rather than solid stones.
It's most often discovered incidentally during an abdominal ultrasound or during gallbladder surgery performed for another reason.
Most people experience no symptoms. When present, symptoms can include mild upper abdominal pain or pressure, bloating after fatty meals, nausea, gas, or burping.
The exact cause is unclear, but risk factors may include high blood cholesterol levels, overweight or obesity, rapid weight loss, and a family history of gallbladder issues.
The ICD-10 code assigned to cholesterolosis of the gallbladder is K82.1.
Cholesterolosis is generally harmless and rarely leads to complications on its own.
Gallstones are solid stone-like formations, whereas cholesterolosis involves soft, microscopic fat deposits in the gallbladder wall.
If you have no symptoms, treatment is usually unnecessary. Symptomatic patients may benefit from diet and lifestyle changes, medications to lower cholesterol, or, in severe cases, gallbladder removal.
Yes. Adopting a low-fat diet, reducing fried foods, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly can help alleviate symptoms and lower cholesterol levels.
GastroDoxs in Houston offers board-certified GI specialists who provide clear explanations, personalized treatment plans, and prompt scheduling for gallbladder care.
