Cholesterolosis of gallbladder

This code represents cholesterolosis of the gallbladder, a benign condition characterized by the accumulation of cholesterol esters within the macrophages of the gallbladder wall, often appearing as yellow flecks or a "strawberry gallbladder" upon gross examination. It is typically asymptomatic but can sometimes be associated with biliary colic or cholelithiasis.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of cholesterolosis of the gallbladder, whether identified incidentally during imaging, endoscopy, or histopathological examination of a cholecystectomy specimen. This diagnosis is often made post-cholecystectomy or during diagnostic workup for gallbladder-related symptoms.

• Do not confuse with cholelithiasis (gallstones) unless both conditions are documented; cholesterolosis is a distinct entity.
• If cholelithiasis is also present, code both conditions, with the primary reason for the encounter sequenced first.
• Documentation should clearly state "cholesterolosis" or "strawberry gallbladder" for accurate code assignment.