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Gallbladder Cancer: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

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Gallbladder Cancer

Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Gallbladder cancer is a rare but serious disease that starts in the gallbladder, a small pouch that sits just under your liver. The biggest challenge with this cancer is that it often doesn’t show any signs in the beginning, making it very difficult to find early.

As it grows, you might notice symptoms like pain in your stomach, feeling sick (nausea), or your skin turning yellow (jaundice). People who have had gallstones for a long time are at a higher risk. This guide will explain the causes, symptoms, and treatment for gallbladder cancer in simple terms, and we’ll also discuss how you can lower your risk.

What is Gallbladder Cancer?

Gallbladder cancer is a rare but serious disease. It happens when harmful cells start growing in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ under the liver that helps digest fat by storing bile, a special fluid. Since the gallbladder is deep inside the body, this cancer is hard to find early. Many people don’t notice symptoms until the disease has spread.
  • How Common is Gallbladder Cancer?
Gallbladder cancer is not very common. It is found more often in some parts of the world, like South America and South Asia. It mostly affects older adults, especially women. Since it is usually found late, treatment can be more difficult.

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Types of Gallbladder Cancer

⦿ Adenocarcinoma – The most common type that starts in gland cells.
⦿ Squamous Cell Carcinoma – Develops from thin, flat cells inside the gallbladder.
⦿ Small Cell Carcinoma – A rare but fast-growing type.
⦿ Sarcoma – Forms in the soft tissue of the gallbladder.

Types of Gallbladder Cancer

Causes of Gallbladder Cancer

Gallbladder cancer is influenced by a variety of risk factors, some of which may be preventable or manageable. 

  • Gallstones and Long-Term Gallbladder Problems
Gallstones are hard clumps that form in the gallbladder. They can cause irritation and swelling, which may lead to cancer over time. 
  • Family History and Genetics

If close family members have had gallbladder cancer or other gallbladder diseases, the chances of getting it may be higher. Certain genetic changes may also make some people more likely to develop this cancer.

  • Obesity and an Unhealthy Lifestyle

Being overweight can increase the risk of gallbladder cancer. Eating too much junk food and not enough healthy foods can also make the body more likely to develop this disease. A lack of exercise adds to the risk.

Causes of Gallbladder Cancer
  • Exposure to Harmful Chemicals

People who work around chemicals, like in factories that make rubber or metals, may have a greater chance of developing gallbladder cancer. These harmful substances can affect the body over time.

  • Gallbladder Polyps

Gallbladder polyps are small growths inside the gallbladder. Some polyps are harmless, but if they grow larger than 1 cm, they might turn into cancer.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Gallbladder Cancer

Gallbladder cancer often shows subtle symptoms in its early stages, which can easily be overlooked.

Ongoing Pain in the Upper Right Belly

Ongoing Pain in the Upper Right Belly

A common early symptom is pain in the upper right side of the belly. At first, it may come and go, but over time, it can get worse and last longer.
Nausea, Vomiting, and Stomach Problems

Nausea, Vomiting, and Stomach Problems

People with gallbladder cancer often feel sick to their stomach. They may vomit or have trouble digesting fatty foods, which can cause bloating and discomfort.
Jaundice Yellow Skin and Eyes

Jaundice: Yellow Skin and Eyes

When bile from the liver can’t flow properly, it builds up in the body. This causes the skin and eyes to turn yellow. Jaundice is a serious warning sign and should not be ignored.
Sudden Weight Loss and No Appetite

Sudden Weight Loss and No Appetite

Losing weight without trying or feeling full after eating very little can be a sign of gallbladder cancer. The body may not be absorbing nutrients properly.
Swelling or a Lump in the Belly

Swelling or a Lump in the Belly

As the cancer grows, it can cause swelling in the stomach area. Sometimes, a lump may be felt under the skin.
Fever and General Weakness

Fever and General Weakness

A persistent low-grade fever, along with fatigue or a feeling of general weakness, may also indicate an underlying infection or cancer-related inflammation. 

Have a Question?

Are you experiencing any of these symptoms? Consult a seasoned specialist for appropriate diagnosis and management.

How is Gallbladder Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosing gallbladder cancer involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, imaging, and laboratory tests.

  • Doctor’s Check-Up and Medical History
The first step in finding gallbladder cancer is a visit to the doctor. The doctor will ask about symptoms like belly pain, swelling, or yellow skin and eyes (jaundice). They will also ask if anyone in the family has had gallbladder disease or cancer.
  • Tests to See Inside the Body
Doctors use special tests to check if there is a tumor in the gallbladder:
Tests to See Inside the Body for gallbladder cancer

⦿ Ultrasound – Uses sound waves to take pictures of the gallbladder.
⦿ CT Scan – A strong X-ray that shows the size and location of any tumors.
⦿ MRI – Uses magnets to take clear images of the gallbladder and nearby organs.
⦿ Biopsy: A biopsy is when doctors take a tiny piece of the gallbladder and look at it under a microscope. This test helps confirm if cancer is present.

  • Blood Tests for Liver Health
Doctors may also check the blood to see how well the liver is working. High levels of certain substances could mean there is a problem in the gallbladder or liver.

Stages of Gallbladder Cancer

Gallbladder cancer is divided into different stages based on how much it has spread.
Stages of Gallbladder Cancer
  • Stage 0: Very Early Cancer

⦿ Cancer is only in the thin inner layer of the gallbladder.
⦿ It has not spread anywhere else.
⦿ This stage is the easiest to treat.

  • Stage I: Cancer Inside the Gallbladder

⦿ Cancer is in the gallbladder wall but has not spread outside.
⦿ Surgery can usually remove all the cancer.

  • Stage II: Cancer Reaching Nearby Areas

⦿ Cancer has spread deeper into the gallbladder and may have reached nearby organs like the liver or intestines.
⦿ Surgery and other treatments may be needed.

  • Stage III: Cancer in Lymph Nodes

⦿ Cancer has spread to lymph nodes (small glands that help the body fight infection).
⦿ Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.

  • Stage IV: Cancer Spread to Other Organs

⦿ Cancer has moved to far parts of the body, like the lungs or bones.
⦿ This is the most serious stage. Treatment focuses on slowing the cancer and easing symptoms.

Treatment Options for Gallbladder Cancer

Gallbladder cancer treatment depends on the stage of the disease and the patient’s overall health.

Surgery

Surgery Removing the Gallbladder
If the cancer is found early, doctors may remove the gallbladder in a surgery called cholecystectomy. Sometimes, part of the liver and nearby lymph nodes are also taken out.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy Fighting Cancer with Medicine
Chemotherapy uses strong medicine to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It is often used when the cancer has spread and surgery alone is not enough.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation Therapy Using High-Energy Rays
Radiation therapy sends strong energy beams to the cancer to destroy the cells. It may be used with surgery or chemotherapy to help stop the cancer from growing.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy and Special Drugs

⦿ Immunotherapy helps the body’s defence system fight cancer.
⦿ Targeted drug therapy attacks only cancer cells without hurting normal cells.

Comfort Care

Pain Relief and Comfort Care
When cancer is very advanced, doctors focus on keeping the patient comfortable. Palliative care helps manage pain, nausea, and other symptoms to improve quality of life.
  • Treatment Options and Outcomes Table
  • Swipe right to view the full table
Gallbladder Cancer Treatments
Treatment Option Description Best for Stages Expected Outcomes
Surgery (Cholecystectomy ± Extended Resection) Removal of the gallbladder and nearby tissues. If spread, liver resection may be needed. Stage I-III Best chance of cure if detected early.
Chemotherapy Drugs to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. Used before/after surgery or for advanced cases. Stage II-IV Improves survival, but limited for advanced disease.
Radiation Therapy High-energy rays to shrink tumors, often combined with chemotherapy. Stage III-IV May control disease, but not curative alone.
Targeted Therapy Blocks cancer-specific pathways (e.g., HER2, FGFR inhibitors) for advanced cases. Stage IV Benefits biomarker-positive patients.
Immunotherapy Enhances the immune system to attack cancer. Used in select advanced cases. Stage IV Improves survival in specific cases.
Palliative Care Symptom relief (pain management, bile duct stenting) for incurable cases. Stage IV (End-stage) Improves quality of life, relieves symptoms.

Can You Prevent Gallbladder Cancer?

There is no guaranteed way to stop gallbladder cancer from happening, but making healthy choices can lower the risk. Keeping your gallbladder in good shape can help prevent problems that might lead to cancer.
Prevention Tips for Gallbladder Cancer
  • Stay at a Healthy Weight
Being overweight can increase the chance of gallbladder problems, including cancer. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help keep your body healthy and support your gallbladder.
  • Avoid Junk Food
Eating a lot of fried or processed foods can cause gallbladder issues, like Gallstones, which may raise the risk of cancer. Instead, choose lean meats, healthy fats, and foods that are high in fiber to keep your gallbladder working well.
  • Get Regular Checkups
If you have a family history of gallbladder disease or have had gallbladder problems before, regular doctor visits are important. Doctors can use tests like ultrasounds to check for any issues early.
  • Take Care of Gallstones to Lower Cancer Risk
Gallstones are one of the biggest risk factors for gallbladder cancer. You can help prevent them by eating a balanced diet, exercising, and following your doctor’s advice. If gallstones cause serious problems, doctors may suggest removing the gallbladder to prevent future health risks.

Have a Question?

Need help managing Gallbladder Cancer? Reach out to an expert and take control of your health today. Schedule an appointment today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is gallbladder cancer?

Gallbladder cancer happens when bad cells grow in the gallbladder, a small organ under the liver. It is not very common, but it can be serious, especially if found late.

What are the early signs of gallbladder cancer?

Early signs can be mild and include stomach pain, feeling sick, not feeling hungry, and yellowish skin (jaundice). Many people do not notice symptoms until the cancer spreads.

What causes gallbladder cancer?

Doctors don’t know the exact cause, but things like gallstones, long-term gallbladder swelling, being overweight, and family history can increase the risk.

Who is more likely to get gallbladder cancer?

It happens more often in women, people older than 60, and those with gallstones, infections, or unhealthy eating habits.

Can gallbladder cancer be cured?

If caught early, surgery can remove the cancer and give a chance for a cure. If it is found late, treatment focuses on slowing the disease and easing symptoms.

Does gallbladder cancer spread fast?

Yes, it can spread quickly to other parts of the body, like the liver and lymph nodes. This is why finding it early is very important.al choice. Government schemes like Ayushman Bharat and health insurance can help cover these expenses.

Does removing the gallbladder prevent cancer?

If someone has gallstones or long-term gallbladder problems, removing it may lower the risk. But it does not guarantee that cancer won’t happen.

What are the treatment options for gallbladder cancer?

Treatment can include surgery if the cancer is found early. For later stages, doctors may use chemotherapy, radiation, or special medicines to slow the cancer.

Is gallbladder cancer painful?

In early stages, there may be no pain. As it grows, it can cause stomach pain, discomfort, and yellow skin (jaundice).

What are the chances of surviving gallbladder cancer?

Survival depends on when the cancer is found. Finding it early gives better chances, but if it is found late, survival rates are lower because it spreads fast.
Dr Harsh Shah - Robotic Cancer Surgeon

Written by

Dr. Harsh Shah

MS, MCh (G I cancer Surgeon)

Dr. Harsh Shah is a renowned GI and HPB Robotic Cancer Surgeon in Ahmedabad.

Dr Swati Shah

Reviewed by

Dr. Swati Shah

MS, DrNB (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Swati Shah is a Robotic Uro and Gynecological Cancer Surgeon in Ahmedabad.

Last Updated on 3 months by Dr Harsh & Swati Shah
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