Gallbladder Cancer

Gallbladder Cancer

Overview

Gallbladder cancer occurs when cells in the gallbladder begin to grow uncontrollably. This cancer can spread to nearby tissues and organs. The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver that stores bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. Though gallbladder cancer is rare globally, it is one of the most common cancers in India, especially in the Indo-Gangetic Plain. The disease is often diagnosed at an advanced stage because it typically produces no early symptoms.

Function of the Gallbladder

The gallbladder stores and concentrates bile, releasing it through the cystic duct into the common bile duct during digestion, particularly after eating fatty foods. Though it plays a role in digestion, the gallbladder is not essential for survival—many people live normal lives after its removal.

Symptoms

Gallbladder cancer usually presents symptoms only in advanced stages. However, when present, symptoms may include:

Abdominal pain (especially upper right side)

Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

Unintentional weight loss

Loss of appetite

Nausea and vomiting

Abdominal bloating or swelling

Fever and chills

Itchy skin

Causes

The exact cause of gallbladder cancer remains unknown. It is believed to result from DNA mutations in healthy gallbladder cells. These mutations cause the cells to multiply uncontrollably and form a tumor that can invade nearby tissue.

Risk Factors

Gallstones: Chronic inflammation due to gallstones increases the risk.

Age and Gender: More common in people aged 65+ and in women.

Obesity: Associated with higher risk.

Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups are more prone.

Anomalous pancreaticobiliary duct junction: Increases cancer risk due to bile reflux.

Diagnosis

Gallbladder cancer is often discovered incidentally during gallstone surgery. Diagnostic methods may include:

Physical examination and medical history

Imaging (ultrasound, CT scan, MRI)

Endoscopic procedures

Biopsy, if needed

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer and the overall health of the patient.

Surgery:

Simple Cholecystectomy: Removal of the gallbladder.

Extended Cholecystectomy: Removal of gallbladder along with surrounding tissues such as parts of the liver and lymph nodes.

Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells. Often used after surgery or for unresectable cancers.

Radiation Therapy: Targets cancer cells with high-energy rays to shrink or kill them. Often used post-surgery or to manage symptoms.

Advanced and Metastatic Cases

When the cancer is unresectable, recurrent, or metastatic, it is generally not curable. In these cases, the goal is symptom control and life extension through:

Palliative Surgery: To relieve obstructions or symptoms

Chemotherapy and Radiation: For symptom management

Supportive care: For quality of life

Emerging Treatments

Patients may also be eligible for clinical trials involving:

Targeted Therapy: Targets specific genetic mutations in cancer cells.

Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system to fight cancer.

Radiosensitizers: Makes cancer cells more responsive to radiation.

Ask your oncologist if a clinical trial is suitable for you.

Prognosis

Gallbladder cancer is often diagnosed late, making it difficult to treat. Early detection significantly improves the prognosis. If you notice symptoms or have risk factors, consult a healthcare provider promptly.