Gallbladder cancer is a disease with abnormal growth of cells in your gallbladder. It is a small, pear-shaped organ in the upper right of your abdomen, under your liver. The organ stores bile (digestive fluid) which is produced by your liver.
Gallbladder cancer is a rare disease with a good chance of cure if discovered at an early stage. But, unfortunately, because of the hidden nature of the gallbladder, cancer grows without being detected. The delayed diagnosis makes the prognosis very poor.
So, if you experience any symptoms like abdominal pain, or bloating for a long time. Consult a gastroenterologist to get an early and accurate diagnosis
What are the Symptoms of Gallbladder Cancer?
Gallbladder cancer often presents with non-specific symptoms in its early stages, which can make it challenging to diagnose. However, as the disease progresses, specific symptoms may emerge including:
- Abdominal pain or lump, in the upper right portion of your abdomen
- Abdominal bloating
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Jaundice
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
The symptoms are similar to conditions, like gallstones or a blockage in a bile duct. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist for an accurate diagnosis.
What is the Cause of Gallbladder Cancer?
It is unclear what causes gallbladder cancer. However, you might be more likely to get it if you:
- Have gallstones, abnormal bile ducts, long-term swelling of the gallbladder or bile ducts for a long time
- Are a woman over the age of 75
- Have a family history of gallbladder cancer
- Are regularly exposed to chemicals and toxins, such as those found in the rubber and textile sectors
These risk factors do not guarantee that you will develop cancer. It just indicates that your chances may be higher than someone without the risk.
What Tests are Needed for the Diagnosis of Gallbladder Cancer?
Sometimes, the disease is discovered incidentally when the gallbladder is removed for other reasons like cholecystitis. However, if you experience symptoms, your doctor may take your personal and family health history, do a physical examination and advise the following tests and procedures:
Blood Tests
This procedure is done to evaluate how well your liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts are working. This may help to determine the cause of your signs and symptoms.
Image Tests
This includes abdominal ultrasound to create images of the gallbladder and liver. CT scan and MRI scan for detailed imaging, percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) to identify blockages in bile ducts or liver, and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) which uses a camera to examine the bile ducts.
Surgeries
These procedures are performed to directly access and examine tissue that may contain cancer cells in the gallbladder.
- Biopsy
A small sample of tissue from the gallbladder is removed and then examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
- Laparoscopy
A thin and lighted tube called a laparoscope is inserted into your abdomen through a small incision. This helps to visually inspect your gallbladder and surrounding tissues.
Based on the above tests, your doctor will determine the extent to which the cancer has spread and plan the appropriate treatment approach.
What are the Options for Gallbladder Cancer Treatment in Hyderabad, India?
The treatment will depend on:
- The size of the cancer
- Its type and extent
- Your overall health
In cases of early-stage gallbladder cancer, the primary objective of treatment is to completely remove the cancer and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Early-stage Treatment of Gallbladder Cancer
Surgery
It is a common treatment for early-stage gallbladder cancer. It involves the removal of the gallbladder and nearby tissues. The extent of the surgery depends on the specific situation:
- Simple Cholecystectomy:
In this procedure, the surgeon removes only the gallbladder.
- Extended Cholecystectomy:
This is done if the cancer has spread beyond the gallbladder. It involves surgical removal of the gallbladder and surrounding affected tissues, along with lymph nodes.
Radiation therapy
This involves the use of a machine outside your body (EBRT) to direct radiation to your cancer. This treatment aims to kill cancer cells or slow down tumor growth while minimizing damage to healthy cells. Radiation therapy may be recommended after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. It may also help reduce cancer-related symptoms.
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