Cholesterolosis : Microscopic Features

Patterns of Lipid Accumulation in Cholesterolosis: In 80% of cases, cholesterolosis diffusely involves the gallbladder. Foamy macrophages are distributed throughout the lamina propria, ending abruptly and sparing the cystic duct. In 10% of cases, there are focal lipid deposits which form excrescences and project into the lumen as cholesterol polyps. In another 10% of cases, there is diffuse cholesterolosis as well as cholesterol polyps.

Image courtesy of: Dr. Jian-Hua Qiao; used with permission.