Frequently asked questions about Gallbladder cancer

The gallbladder is a hollow organ underneath the liver. It is responsible for storing the bile produced by the liver. Cancer can sometimes develop in this organ, and due to no symptoms at early stages,often go undetected for a long time. However, when diagnosed early, it can be treated successfully.

Here are some common questions about the cancer:

1. What are the signs and symptoms of Gallbladder cancer?

As stated above the cancer rarely presents symptoms in the earlier stages. However, as it grows, a patient may notice:

• Bloating
• Upper right abdominal pain
• Itchiness
• Fever
• Food aversion
• Sudden unexplained weight loss
• Vomiting
• Jaundice

2. How is gallbladder cancer diagnosed?

The following tests can help diagnose the disease determine the stage of the cancer:

• Blood Tests
• Ultrasound
• Computerized tomography (CT)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

3. What are the risk factors contributing to the development of Gallbladder cancer?

Factors contributing to the risk of gallbladder cancer include:

• Being a woman (Women are more likely than men to develop gallbladder cancer)
• Advancing age
• Obesity
• History of gallstones, porcelain gallbladder, choledochal cyst and chronic gallbladder infection

4. How is Gallbladder cancer treated?

When diagnosed at an early stage, a successful Cholecystectomy (surgical removal of the gallbladder) can be performed. Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy may also be required in addition to
the surgery.

Once metastasis (spread of the cancer from the source organ to other parts of the body) occurs,traditional treatments may not be as effective. However, your oncologist can help with its symptoms.

Additionally, advanced gallbladder cancer can cause blockages in the bile ducts, leading to further complications. Procedures to ease blockages such as placing a hollow metal tube (stent) in a duct to hold it open or reroute bile ducts around the blockage (biliary bypass) surgically may help.