Gallbladder Cancer

Overview

The gallbladder is a hollow, pear-shaped organ on the right side of the abdomen, under the liver, and is part of the biliary system. It stores and concentrates the bile that comes from the liver.

Gallbladder cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in the gallbladder and is uncommon. If discovered in time, the chance of cure is relatively high. But, doctors usually find most gallbladder cancers when they are in a more advanced stage.

Causes of Gallbladder Cancer

• Gallstones
• Carcinogens
• Obesity
• Chronic typhoid
• Gallbladder polyps
• Family history

Symptoms of Gallbladder Cancer

• Abdominal pain
• Abdominal bloating
• Jaundice
• Unintended weight loss
• Nausea
• Lumps in the belly
• Loss of appetite
• Dark urine

Prevention of Gallbladder Cancer

It’s important to maintain bladder health. Here are some tips that one should follow:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Stay active
• Avoid alcohol
• Eat a nutritional diet
• Exercise regularly

Diagnosis of Gallbladder Cancer

• Blood Test: Helps the doctor evaluate liver function and detect abnormalities.
• Imaging: CT scans and MRIs help create pictures of the gallbladder for detailed study.
• Exploratory Surgery: A small incision is made in the abdomen to insert a tiny camera that helps surgeons check if cancer has spread.
• Cholangiography: An imaging test that examines the bile ducts to determine if they are blocked, narrowed, or dilated.

Treatment of Gallbladder Cancer

• Surgery: Procedures like cholecystectomy may be performed to remove the gallbladder and nearby tissues or lymph nodes.
• Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy radiation like X-rays to destroy or halt cancer cell growth.
• Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill or prevent the division of cancer cells throughout the body.
• Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells using lab-made or natural substances.
• Targeted Therapy: Uses specific drugs designed to target tumour cells with minimal harm to normal cells.