17013 Gallbladder Cancer

Overview

Gallbladder cancer is a rare type of cancer that starts in the gallbladder, a small pear-shaped organ just below the liver. The gallbladder stores bile, a fluid that helps digest fats. In gallbladder cancer, cells grow out of control and form a tumour.

No, gallbladder cancer is uncommon. In the UK, it is diagnosed in fewer than 1 in 100 people with cancer. It is more common in some parts of the world, such as South America and Asia.

Gallbladder cancer most often affects people over the age of 70, and women more than men. People with gallstones, chronic gallbladder inflammation, or certain bile duct conditions have a higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Pain in the upper right side of the belly
• A swollen or lumpy belly
• Unintentional weight loss
• Fever or sweating
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite

Symptoms in children

• Gallbladder cancer is extremely rare in children. Any child with jaundice, persistent belly pain, or unexplained weight loss should see a doctor.

Symptoms in older adults

• In older adults, symptoms such as tiredness, confusion, and weight loss may be more noticeable. These should not be dismissed as normal aging and need medical review.

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause is unknown, but gallbladder cancer begins when cells in the gallbladder develop changes in their DNA that make them grow abnormally.
• Most cases are linked to long-term inflammation of the gallbladder, often from gallstones.

Risk factors

• Being older (over 70)
• Being female
• Having gallstones or a history of gallbladder polyps
• Chronic gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis)
• Primary sclerosing cholangitis, a bile duct disease
• Smoking and heavy alcohol use
• Obesity and a diet high in processed meats

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• See a doctor the same day if you have new jaundice, severe belly pain, or persistent vomiting.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Make a routine appointment if you have unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, or prolonged nausea.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, examine your belly, and usually arrange blood tests and an ultrasound scan. If the results suggest cancer, you will be referred to a specialist for further scans and possibly a biopsy.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests, including liver function tests
• Ultrasound scan of your belly
• CT (computed tomography) or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan
• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), using a thin tube with a camera
• Biopsy, taking a small sample of tissue for examination

What to expect at your appointment

You may need to go to a hospital for specialist tests. These are done to find out whether cancer is present and how far it has spread, called staging. Your healthcare team will explain each step and support you throughout the process.

Treatment

Treatment for gallbladder cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, your general health, and your preferences. The main options are surgery to remove the gallbladder, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Your healthcare team will discuss a plan that is right for you.

Self-care at home

• Stop smoking if you smoke.
• Limit alcohol.
• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables.
• Stay as active as you feel able.
• Tell your care team about any new or worsening symptoms.

Medical treatments

Surgery is the main treatment if the cancer is caught early. It may involve removing the gallbladder and some surrounding tissue, and sometimes part of the liver. Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer drugs to shrink or control the cancer. Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays to target cancer cells. Some people may have a combination of these treatments. You may also be offered treatments to relieve symptoms, such as draining bile or pain relief. Your specialist team will explain what each treatment involves, including the expected benefits and risks, without rushing your decision.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery can offer a chance of cure when the cancer is confined to the gallbladder and has not spread. If the cancer is advanced, surgery may not be possible, but other treatments can help control it and manage symptoms.

Living with this condition

Living with gallbladder cancer can be tough, both physically and emotionally. Allow yourself time to rest, and let family or friends help with meals and daily tasks. Follow your care team’s advice and keep a note of any symptoms to discuss at your appointments.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep up gentle activities, such as short walks, if you feel well enough.
• Try to maintain a routine that helps you feel in control.
• Ask for practical help with chores and transport.
• Plan ahead for hospital visits and rest breaks.

Diet and exercise

Eat small, frequent meals if you lose your appetite. A dietitian can help you choose nourishing foods that are easy to digest. Light exercise, like walking, can boost energy and mood, but always check with your team before starting anything new.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A cancer diagnosis can bring anxiety, sadness, and stress. These feelings are normal. Speak to your doctor, nurse, or a counselor about what you are going through. Many people find talking treatments or support groups helpful.

Prevention

There is no sure way to prevent gallbladder cancer, but you can lower your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and not smoking. Managing gallstones and other gallbladder conditions with your doctor may also help.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for gallbladder cancer. Some viral infections, like hepatitis, can raise cancer risk, but they are not directly linked to gallbladder cancer.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for gallbladder cancer in the general population. If you have a high risk, such as a family history of gallbladder cancer or certain bile duct diseases, talk to your doctor about monitoring.

Complications

If left untreated

• The cancer can spread to nearby organs, such as the liver, bile ducts, and intestine.
• It may block the bile duct, causing jaundice and infection.
• Advanced cancer can cause severe weight loss, weakness, and pain.

Long-term outlook

The outlook for gallbladder cancer depends on how early it is found. When caught early, surgery can be curative, and many people live for years after treatment. Newer treatments are improving survival. Your healthcare team will be honest with you about your situation and focus on giving you the best possible quality of life.

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