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Gallbladder cancer is a rare but aggressive malignancy that originates in the gallbladder—a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver that stores bile, a digestive fluid.
Gallbladder cancer is a rare but aggressive malignancy that originates in the gallbladder—a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver that stores bile, a digestive fluid. This cancer typically begins in the lining of the gallbladder and can spread quickly to nearby organs if not diagnosed early. Due to its vague symptoms, it often goes unnoticed until it reaches advanced stages.
Gallbladder cancer occurs when mutations in the DNA of gallbladder cells lead to uncontrolled cell growth. These abnormal cells form a tumor and can infiltrate nearby tissues or metastasize to distant organs through the lymphatic system or bloodstream. Chronic inflammation from conditions like gallstones is often a precursor to these mutations.
Though the exact causes remain uncertain, several risk factors are known to increase the likelihood of developing gallbladder cancer:
Chronic Gallbladder Inflammation: Long-term inflammation caused by gallstones or cholecystitis.
Gender: Women are more frequently affected than men.
Age: Most cases are diagnosed in individuals over 60.
Ethnicity: Higher rates observed in Native American, Hispanic, and Indian populations.
Obesity: Excess body weight contributes to gallstone formation and inflammation.
Family History: A genetic predisposition may increase the risk.
Porcelain Gallbladder: Calcification of the gallbladder wall is associated with a higher cancer risk.
Stages:
Stage 0: Abnormal cells in the innermost lining
Stage I-II: Localized cancer within the gallbladder wall
Stage III: Spread to nearby organs and lymph nodes
Stage IV: Distant metastasis (e.g., liver, lungs)
Grades:
Low-grade: Cancer cells resemble normal cells and grow slowly
High-grade: Cells are more abnormal and aggressive
Adenocarcinoma: Most common, develops in glandular cells
Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Arises from flat squamous cells lining the gallbladder
Adenosquamous Carcinoma: Combination of the two above, more aggressive
Gallbladder cancer is often asymptomatic in early stages. Symptoms may include:
Upper right abdominal pain
Nausea and vomiting
Jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes)
Unintended weight loss
Loss of appetite
Dark-colored urine and pale stools
Enlarged gallbladder or liver on physical exam
Seek medical advice immediately if you experience persistent abdominal discomfort, jaundice, or digestive symptoms. Early diagnosis improves the chances of effective treatment.
If symptoms persist or if you have a history of gallstones or chronic gallbladder disease, consult with our expert gastro-oncologists at Konkan Cancer Centre for thorough evaluation and next steps.
To confirm gallbladder cancer, Konkan Cancer Center offers:
Ultrasound: First-line, non-invasive detection of masses
CT Scan: Detailed imaging for staging and spread assessment
MRI/MRCP: In-depth bile duct visualization
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): High-resolution views of gallbladder walls
Biopsy: Confirmatory test using tissue samples
Our multidisciplinary team uses advanced diagnostic tools and pathology services to confirm cancer diagnosis. A biopsy remains the gold standard, supplemented by imaging and clinical findings.
If diagnosed, our team at Konkan Cancer Center will guide you through:
Personalized treatment planning
Second opinion consultation
Psychological counseling
Financial and family support
Kolhapur Cancer Centre offers comprehensive, multidisciplinary treatment options:
Surgery:
Cholecystectomy: Gallbladder removal
Radical Resection: Removal of surrounding tissues/liver portions for advanced cases
Chemotherapy: Post-surgical or palliative care using agents like gemcitabine and cisplatin
Radiotherapy: Image-guided techniques to target tumors
Targeted Therapy: Focused drugs targeting specific genetic mutations
Immunotherapy: Stimulates the body’s immune system to attack cancer cells
Surgical resection remains the most effective, curative treatment for localized gallbladder cancer. For patients diagnosed early, surgery offers the best survival outcomes. For advanced cases, a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation is often used for optimal care.
Consult with our:
Surgical oncologists
Gastroenterology specialists
Medical oncologists
Palliative care experts
Our integrated approach ensures every patient receives the right treatment at the right time.
Prognosis depends on:
Stage and grade at diagnosis
Age and general health
Response to therapy
Patients diagnosed early have a significantly higher 5-year survival rate. At Konkan Cancer Center, continuous monitoring and follow-up ensure the best possible long-term care.
Abdominal pain, nausea, and jaundice are common early signs.
Through imaging (CT, MRI, Ultrasound) and confirmed by biopsy.
While not fully preventable, managing gallstones and maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce the risk.
While not directly hereditary, family history can raise risk.
It depends on the stage, with early detection offering the best outcomes.
Side effects vary but may include fatigue, nausea, and digestive issues.
Yes. Regular follow-up is essential after treatment.
They may complement traditional treatment but should never replace it. Always consult with your oncologist.
Our specialists will help develop a personalized treatment plan based on your diagnosis and needs.
We offer counseling, nutritional support, physiotherapy, and patient care coordination for holistic recovery.
Get Expert Care at Konkan Cancer Centre If you or a loved one is facing Gallbladder Cancer, reach out to us today. We are here to support you through diagnosis, treatment, and beyond.