Gallbladder Cancer (also called Biliary Cancer): A Dangerous Malignant Disease with Poor Prognosis if Detected Late

Gallbladder cancer, also known as biliary cancer, is a dangerous malignancy with a poor prognosis if detected late. Its symptoms are often mistaken for liver diseases. Below, experts highlight the “key indicators” of gallbladder cancer.

1. What is Gallbladder Cancer?

Gallbladder cancer, also known as biliary cancer, is a highly dangerous disease that is difficult to detect in its early stages.

The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located on the right side of the abdomen, just beneath the liver. It stores bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. Thanks to bile and other digestive enzymes, the body can process fats.

Gallbladder cancer is caused by the uncontrolled growth of cells lining the gallbladder wall. It is quite rare and usually has no obvious early symptoms. However, if diagnosed in its early stages, the chances of successful treatment are high.

2. Seven “Indicator” Signs of Gallbladder Cancer

2.1. Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) – A very typical sign of gallbladder cancer
Jaundice is the most common symptom, occurring in up to 90% of diagnosed patients. At first, jaundice can be overlooked under artificial light, as the change in skin tone is not obvious. Checking under natural light provides a clearer view. If the skin appears yellowish and pale, it may indicate liver or gallbladder conditions, including the risk of gallbladder cancer.

This occurs because bile is produced in the liver and stored in the gallbladder to help digest food. When bile flow is blocked, bilirubin (a bile pigment) builds up in the blood, leading to yellowing of the skin and eyes.

2.2. Persistent, dull abdominal pain



Ongoing, dull abdominal pain often makes people think they simply have digestive issues. However, persistent discomfort in the area near the liver can be a warning sign of gallbladder cancer.

2.3. Nausea and vomiting without clear cause, not related to stomach disease

While nausea and vomiting are often linked to stomach disorders, they can also signal liver or gallbladder disease. If these symptoms appear alongside liver-area pain, eye discoloration, and fatigue, you should seek medical attention promptly.

2.4. Abdominal bloating

Though bloating has many causes, persistent bloating accompanied by abdominal discomfort may also indicate gallbladder cancer.

2.5. Gallstones – An early risk factor for gallbladder cancer

Statistics show that 4 out of 5 people with gallstones are at risk of developing gallbladder cancer. Gallstones, formed from excess cholesterol and calcium, obstruct gallbladder function. If you have a history of gallstones, you should closely monitor your health and undergo regular check-ups for early detection.

2.6. Loss of appetite, fatigue, and weight loss

When bile cannot flow properly and builds up in the bloodstream, it not only causes jaundice but also leads to appetite loss. Patients often lose interest in foods they previously enjoyed, eat very little, and consequently lose weight.

2.7. Family history of gallbladder cancer



As with other cancers, such as breast cancer, family history is an important risk factor. While no direct genetic link has been confirmed, statistics show that people with relatives who had gallbladder cancer should be especially vigilant.

3. Treatment of Gallbladder Cancer

Currently, the following treatment methods are used:

3.1. Surgery to completely remove the gallbladder

This is applied in the early stages to eliminate the tumor entirely. Surgery removes the gallbladder and the tumor. In advanced stages where the cancer spreads to nearby tissues or other organs, surgery may help relieve symptoms and extend survival. At this stage, surgery may be combined with bile duct stenting or bypass procedures.

3.2. Radiation therapy

Radiation may be used before or after surgery, or both. If the tumor is too large, radiation can shrink it to make surgical removal possible. After surgery, radiation is used to destroy any remaining cancer cells. Side effects may include hair loss, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

3.3. Chemotherapy

This involves oral or intravenous medication, often combined with radiation to destroy residual cancer cells and reduce recurrence risk. Chemotherapy also helps ease symptoms and extend survival but comes with side effects similar to radiation.

Additionally, palliative care is provided to reduce pain and improve comfort for patients.

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Conclusion:
Gallbladder cancer (biliary cancer) is a dangerous disease. Only early detection offers a good chance of treatment. If diagnosed late, the mortality rate is very high. Therefore, recognizing warning signs and undergoing regular check-ups are essential to protecting yourself and your loved ones.