Symptoms of Gallbladder Cancer
The most common symptom of gallbladder cancer is abdominal pain. Other symptoms can include jaundice, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Some people may also experience changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea. In some cases, the tumor may cause a blockage in the bile ducts, resulting in a buildup of bile that can cause itching, dark urine, and pale stools.
Risk Factors for Gallbladder Cancer
Some of the risk factors for gallbladder cancer include age, gender, race, and personal or family history of gallstones. Other factors that may increase the risk for gallbladder cancer include smoking, obesity, and chronic inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis).
Diagnosis of Gallbladder Cancer
If gallbladder cancer is suspected, tests such as an abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, or PET scan may be done to look for tumors. Blood tests may also be done to look for elevated levels of certain substances that may indicate cancer. In some cases, a biopsy may be done to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment of Gallbladder Cancer
Treatment of gallbladder cancer typically involves surgery to remove the tumor and surrounding healthy tissue. In some cases, chemotherapy and/or radiation may be recommended to destroy any remaining cancer cells.