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Understanding Gall Bladder Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

A relatively rare but serious cancer that deserves early attention and awareness

Dr. Abhishek Mitra 13 October, 2023 6 min read
Understanding Gall Bladder Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

Gall bladder cancer, although relatively rare, is a serious condition that demands attention and awareness. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and diagnosis can aid in early detection, which significantly increases the chances of effective treatment. If you are keen on understanding gall bladder cancer more profoundly or looking for the best gall bladder cancer surgeon in Delhi, you have come to the right place. We also introduce you to a leading expert in the field, Dr. Abhishek Mitra.

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What is Gall Bladder Cancer?

The gall bladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver. Its primary function is to store and release bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. Gall bladder cancer occurs when malignant (cancerous) cells form in the tissues of the gall bladder.

Gall bladder cancer rarely announces itself early — which is exactly why knowing the risk factors and acting on persistent symptoms matters so much.

Causes of Gall Bladder Cancer

The exact cause of gall bladder cancer is unclear, but certain factors increase the risk:

  • Chronic Inflammation: Persistent inflammation of the gall bladder can increase the risk of cancer.
  • Gallstones: A history of gallstones can heighten the risk, though not everyone with gallstones develops cancer.
  • Age and Gender: Gall bladder cancer is more prevalent in older adults and more common in women.
  • Other Risk Factors: Obesity, certain types of gall bladder polyps, and some inherited conditions can contribute to a heightened risk.

Symptoms of Gall Bladder Cancer

While early-stage gall bladder cancer might not present any noticeable symptoms, as the cancer progresses, one might observe:

Upper Abdominal Discomfort

Persistent pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Gradual weight decline not linked to diet or activity.

Nausea

Ongoing queasiness, sometimes with vomiting.

Jaundice

Yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes.

Fever can also accompany more advanced disease. None of these symptoms are unique to gall bladder cancer, but persistent or worsening symptoms warrant a prompt evaluation.

Diagnosis of Gall Bladder Cancer

Early diagnosis is vital for effective treatment. Some methods to diagnose gall bladder cancer include:

  • Physical Examination: The doctor may check for any abnormalities or lumps.
  • Blood Tests: Blood tests might indicate liver function issues which can be linked to gall bladder cancer.
  • Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI can be instrumental in identifying tumors.
  • Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken from the gall bladder and examined for cancer cells.

Dr. Abhishek Mitra: Leading Gall Bladder Cancer Surgeon in Delhi

When dealing with gallbladder cancer, having an expert by your side is invaluable. Dr. Abhishek Mitra stands out as one of the best gall bladder cancer surgeons in Delhi. His vast experience, combined with his dedication to patient-centric care, ensures that patients receive the highest level of medical care. His reputation precedes him, making him the top choice for those seeking gall bladder cancer treatment in Delhi.

Have Concerns About Gallbladder Symptoms?

Book a consultation with Dr. Abhishek Mitra for a thorough evaluation.

Dr. Abhishek Mitra

Dr. Abhishek Mitra

Gastrointestinal & HPB Surgical Oncologist

Senior Consultant with a postdoctoral (HBNI) fellowship from Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, specialising in GI & HPB cancers and minimally invasive surgery.

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