1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated
Cholesterolosis Of Gallbladder
Cholesterolosis of the gallbladder, often called “strawberry gallbladder,” develops when cholesterol deposits accumulate in the gallbladder lining. Frequently symptomless, it may cause mild discomfort. Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs in Houston offers expert diagnosis, personalized treatment, and compassionate patient care.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
High blood cholesterol levels
Elevated triglyceride levels
Overweight or obesity
Rapid weight loss or extreme dieting
Middle age and female gender
Family history of gallbladder disease
Signs and Symptoms
Often no symptoms in early stages
Mild pain or fullness in the upper right abdomen
Bloating or indigestion after fatty meals
Nausea or mild discomfort after eating
Occasional sharp pain if inflammation occurs (rare)
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Cholesterolosis of the Gallbladder?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your overall health, dietary habits, weight history, and any epigastric or right-upper-quadrant pain.
Blood Tests
We check liver function panels and a lipid profile to evaluate cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound to visualize cholesterol deposits (“strawberry” spots) in the gallbladder wall.
Endoscopic ultrasound for a closer look when standard ultrasound findings are unclear.
Additional Testing (if needed)
In select cases, Dr. Nguyen may order further imaging or an endoscopic evaluation to exclude gallstones, polyps, or other gallbladder disorders.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for cholesterolosis of the gallbladder.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes cholesterolosis of the gallbladder?
Cholesterolosis occurs when excess cholesterol or triglycerides build up in the gallbladder wall. Risk factors include high blood lipids, obesity or rapid weight loss, middle age, female sex, and a family history of gallbladder disease.
What are the symptoms of cholesterolosis?
Most people have no symptoms. Some experience mild to moderate upper right abdominal pain, bloating, or nausea—often after eating fatty foods. Rarely, inflammation can cause sharper pain.
What tests diagnose gallbladder cholesterolosis?
An abdominal ultrasound is the primary test to spot cholesterol deposits. Blood tests check liver function and lipid levels. In select cases, an endoscopic ultrasound provides a closer look.
What is the ICD-10 code for cholesterolosis?
The official ICD-10 code for cholesterolosis of the gallbladder is K82.4.
How can diet and lifestyle help?
Adopting a balanced diet rich in fiber and healthy fats (like olive oil), eating smaller meals more frequently, and maintaining a steady, healthy weight through light exercise can reduce cholesterol buildup.
When is surgery recommended?
Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) is advised if symptoms persist, if cholesterolosis leads to gallstones or inflammation, or if pain attacks become frequent and disruptive.
How quickly can I recover from laparoscopic gallbladder surgery?
Most patients resume light activities within 1-2 days. Full recovery typically takes 1-2 weeks, with minimal scarring thanks to small laparoscopic incisions.
