The word “cancer” often stirs feelings of fear and anxiety, and for good reason. Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is rare but deadly, ranking as the 22nd most common cancer globally. It accounts for 1.2% of cancer diagnoses and causes around 1, 65,000 deaths each year. In India, especially in the north and northeast, GBC is among the top three cancers in women. Since it is located deep inside it is detected lat. it is often discovered accidentally when the gallbladder is removed for other reasons, such as gallstones or an infection. Notably, GBC is more common in women than men.
The fatality rate of gallbladder cancer is significantly high, especially when diagnosed late. This malignancy spreads rapidly, commonly affecting the liver and lymph nodes. Because of its aggressive nature, the survival rate is low, making it essential to recognize the symptoms, particularly in its advanced stages.
There is no need to worry as Dr Amita Jain, one of the leading laparoscopic gallbladder surgeons in Delhi NCR explains the symptoms of advanced stage of gallbladder cancer in this article.
What is Gallbladder Cancer and its Stages
When the cells in the gallbladder begin to grow uncontrollably, gallbladder cancer develops. This small, pear-shaped organ, located under the liver, stores and concentrates bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. While the gallbladder aids in digestion, it is not essential for survival, and many people live healthy lives without it. Gallbladder cancer typically starts in the inner lining of the organ and can spread outward over time, forming tumors that may affect nearby organs or distant parts of the body.
Gallbladder cancer is classified into different stages based on the tumor’s size, location, and extent of spread:
- Stage I: Cancer is confined to the inner layers of the gallbladder. At this early stage, the tumor remains limited to the organ’s lining, offering a higher chance of successful treatment.
- Stage II: The cancer has grown into the outer layers of the gallbladder but hasn’t yet spread to nearby organs or lymph nodes.
- Stage III: At this stage, the cancer has advanced beyond the gallbladder and spread to nearby organs such as the liver, small intestine, or stomach. It may also have reached nearby lymph nodes.
- Stage IV: This is the most advanced form of gallbladder cancer. Tumors may involve several nearby organs or have metastasized to distant areas of the body.
Advanced gallbladder cancer refers to either stage 3 (locally advanced) or stage 4 (metastatic) cancer. In stage 3, the cancer spreads around the gallbladder, potentially invading nearby organs like the liver or blocking major blood vessels. In stage 4, it has spread to distant parts of the body, such as the lungs or bones, signaling a more critical progression.
What are the Symptoms of Advance Stage Gallbladder Cancer?
Abdominal Pain
An abdominal pain that is steady or intermittent, especially in the upper-right region, can be a sign of gallbladder cancer. Some people describe it as sharp, while others feel a dragging sensation. If you notice any changes in the nature or location of your abdominal pain, particularly in this area, it’s important to consult your doctor.
Jaundice
One of the telltale symptoms of advanced gallbladder cancer is jaundice. This occurs when a tumor blocks the flow of bile from the gallbladder to the small intestine, preventing bile from draining properly. Since the gallbladder is located beneath the liver, the blockage can also obstruct the liver’s bile duct. As a result, bilirubin, a yellow-orange pigment in bile, builds up in the blood and body tissues. This buildup causes a yellowish tint in the skin and the whites of the eyes. While jaundice is usually noticeable, it may be harder to detect on black or brown skin.
Nausea and Vomiting
Patients may feel various symptoms as gallbladder cancer advances. Nausea is one of the most common signs, often caused by the tumor or its treatments. Bile and vomiting may also occur, typically due to the tumor blocking the bile ducts or spreading to the stomach. As the cancer progresses, it can obstruct the digestive system, leading to frequent nausea and vomiting. These symptoms often come with a general feeling of discomfort or indigestion, making it hard for patients to eat and digest food properly.
Sudden Weight Loss
If the patient is losing weight without even trying, it could be a sign of advanced gallbladder cancer. As the disease progresses, the body uses more energy to fight cancer cells, leading to rapid weight loss. This symptom often comes with a loss of appetite, making it hard to maintain a healthy weight. The cancerous tumor can disrupt the gallbladder’s function, hindering food digestion and nutrient absorption. Patients may also experience unusual fatigue, weakness, and dizziness. Additionally, jaundice—yellowing of the skin and eyes—may occur as the body struggles to process bilirubin.
Weakness
Patients feel weakness and fatigue, which are common symptoms of advanced-stage gallbladder cancer. This occurs as the body produces fewer red blood cells and uses its energy reserves to fight the disease. If shortness of breath accompanies these symptoms, it’s crucial to see a doctor promptly.
Lumps in the Abdomen
Another prominent symptom of gallbladder cancer is a lump in the abdomen. This can indicate swelling from blocked bile ducts or cancer spreading to the liver. Such changes may be detected by a doctor during an examination or through imaging tests like ultrasounds. It’s essential to consult a doctor promptly.
Once you recognize the advanced symptoms of gallbladder cancer—such as abdominal pain, jaundice, nausea, sudden weight loss, weakness, and abdominal lumps—you must not hesitate to seek medical attention. Early detection can significantly impact treatment options and outcomes, highlighting the importance of awareness and proactive health management.
Dr Amita Jain is a surgeon with highest degree of professional competence, precision and surgical craftsmanship. Performed all complicated general surgery procedures with in depth knowledge of invasive and few minimal invasive and onco surgical techniques. Underwent special training in trauma, executed various trauma-related complex life-saving neurosurgical procedures, reconstructed injured mangled limbs and performed vascular and reconstructive procedures with critical care.
Dr Amita Jain holds 28 plus years of rich experience in Trauma and General Laparoscopic Surgeries (including Gallbladder stone removal, appendix removal, hernia repair surgery, piles and fissure surgeries). She was the Professor Surgery of at the Army College of Medical Sciences and Base Hospital Delhi Cantt. In 1994 she was commissioned as Surgeon under the United Nations Mission in Congo. From 2020 to 2022, she worked with Bansals Hospital. Currently, Dr Amita Jain is the Senior Consultant, (Speciality: General and Laparoscopic Surgeon) at Artemis Lite Hospital, New Delhi