Gallbladder Cancer

What Is Gallbladder Cancer?

The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver that stores bile, a digestive fluid made by the liver that helps break down fats. Before passing into the small intestine, bile may be stored in the gallbladder for controlled release. Gallbladder cancer begins when cells in the gallbladder grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. Cancer can also develop in the bile ducts, which are the small tubes that carry bile from the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine. Together, these are referred to as gallbladder and bile duct cancers, depending on where the disease originates.

What Causes Gallbladder & Bile Duct Cancer?

Gallbladder and bile duct cancer develop due to genetic changes in cells that cause abnormal growth and division. While the exact cause is often unknown, certain factors increase risk, including:

• Aging
• Diabetes
• Excessive alcohol use
• Exposure to certain chemical substances
• Genetic mutations
• Family history of certain cancers
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Personal history of liver or bile duct disease
• Obesity
• Personal history of certain cancers

How Is Gallbladder & Bile Duct Cancer Detected?

Diagnosis begins with a comprehensive review of your medical history, physical examination, laboratory testing, and imaging studies. Common diagnostic tools include:

• CT scan (Computed Tomography): Creates detailed cross-sectional images using X-rays.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Produces high-resolution images using magnetic fields.
• PET scan (Positron Emission Tomography): Detects cancer cells by how they absorb a small amount of radioactive tracer.
• PET-CT scan: Combines PET and CT for enhanced accuracy.
• Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of organs and tissues.

If imaging suggests a suspicious mass, a biopsy is usually performed to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.

Signs and Symptoms of Gallbladder Cancer

Gallbladder and bile duct cancers may not cause symptoms in the early stages. When present, symptoms can include:

• Abdominal discomfort, pain, or pressure
• Unexplained weight loss
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever
• A sensation of a mass in the abdomen
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

Because these symptoms can be associated with other conditions, it is important to speak with your doctor if you experience them.

Stages of Gallbladder & Bile Duct Cancer

Staging describes how far the cancer has spread and helps determine treatment options. Early stages are confined to the gallbladder or bile ducts, while more advanced stages may involve nearby tissues, lymph nodes, or distant organs.

Stage 0

Abnormal cells are limited to the innermost lining.

Stage I

Cancer has grown into the gallbladder or bile duct wall but has not spread outside.

Stage II

Cancer has invaded deeper into the wall and may involve nearby tissue.

Stage III

Cancer has spread beyond the gallbladder or bile duct to nearby organs or lymph nodes.

Stage IV

Cancer has spread to distant organs, such as the liver, lungs, or other parts of the body.

How Is Gallbladder & Bile Duct Cancer Treated?

Treatment depends on the stage and type of cancer, as well as overall health. Options may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. These may be used individually or in combination depending on your doctor’s recommendations. Important factors considered in developing a treatment plan include:

• Your age, health, and lifestyle
• The stage of your cancer
• Any other serious health conditions you have
• The urgency of treatment
• Your doctor’s recommendations
• The likelihood that treatment will control or cure your cancer
• Possible side effects of each treatment option

Our Approach

At New York Cancer & Blood Specialists, we understand that a diagnosis of gallbladder or bile duct cancer can be overwhelming. Our team of specialists provides compassionate, individualized care designed to meet your unique needs. We are here to answer your questions, support you throughout your treatment, and guide you every step of the way. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms that may be related to gallbladder or bile duct cancer, please call us at (855) 528-7322 or request an appointment online.