Gallbladder cancer

Overview

Gallbladder cancer originates from abnormal cell growth within the gallbladder, a small organ beneath the liver that stores bile, a digestive fluid. It is a relatively rare form of cancer, often diagnosed late due to its asymptomatic early stages.

Types of Gallbladder cancer

The Types of Gallbladder Cancer are:

1. Adenocarcinoma: This is the most common type, originating in the glandular cells lining the gallbladder.

2. Papillary adenocarcinoma: A less common variant characterized by finger-like projections of cancerous cells.

3. Squamous cell carcinoma: Arises from the flat cells lining the gallbladder, less common than adenocarcinoma.

4. Adenosquamous carcinoma: A rare type containing both glandular and squamous cell components.

Causes of Gallbladder cancer

• Chronic inflammation: Conditions like gallstones or chronic infections can lead to long-term inflammation, increasing cancer risk.

• Genetic mutations: Changes in specific genes can predispose individuals to gallbladder cancer.

• Porcelain gallbladder: A condition where the gallbladder wall becomes calcified, increasing cancer risk.

Risk Factors of Gallbladder cancer

• Age: More common in older adults.

• Gender: Women are more likely to develop gallbladder cancer.

• Ethnicity: Native Americans and Mexican Americans have higher incidence rates.

• Obesity: Excess body weight increases the risk.

Symptoms of Gallbladder cancer

Preventions of Gallbladder cancer

• Healthy diet: High in fruits and vegetables, low in processed foods and saturated fats.

• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is a significant risk factor.

• Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can increase cancer risk.v

Diagnosis of Gallbladder cancer

• Imaging tests: CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound to visualize the gallbladder and detect tumors.

• Biopsy: Removal of tissue for examination under a microscope to confirm cancer.

  Evaluation and Staging of Gallbladder Cancer

  • TNM staging: Classifies the extent of the cancer based on tumor size, lymph node involvement, and metastasis.

  • Performance status: Assesses how the cancer affects daily activities and overall health.

Treatment for Gallbladder cancer

1. Surgery: Removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) and possibly surrounding tissues.

2. Chemotherapy: Systemic treatment to kill cancer cells throughout the body.

3. Radiation therapy: Uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells.

4. Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer growth.

When to seek medical attention ?

• Persistent symptoms: Abdominal pain, jaundice, unexplained weight loss.

• Family history: Especially if relatives have had gallbladder cancer.