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Gallbladder Cancer

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What is gallbladder cancer?

Gallbladder cancer occurs when cells in the gallbladder grow quickly and create a tumor. The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ found beneath your liver that’s about three to four inches long in most people. It stores bile, which is a fluid your liver produces that helps break down fats in the foods you eat. 

Gallbladder cancer is relatively rare. It’s not the same as bile duct cancer, even though your gallbladder and bile ducts are connected in your body. 

Gallbladder cancer can be hard to diagnose because it usually doesn’t cause any symptoms in its early stages, so it’s usually discovered when it’s more advanced. Your gallbladder is also deep inside your body, so cancer can grow without being noticed for some time. 

Older adults, women and people with a history of gallstones are more likely to get gallbladder cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, about 12,000 people are diagnosed with gallbladder cancer each year in the United States.

Since you may not notice symptoms until cancer has progressed, it’s important to be aware of risk factors and symptoms. If you have belly (abdominal) pain that lasts a long time or yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), contact a health care provider.

Why choose Banner MD Anderson for gallbladder cancer care?

At Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, our team of specialists is experienced in diagnosing and treating gallbladder cancer. Breakthroughs in our understanding of unique mutations in gallbladder cancer have given patients access to novel clinical trials and therapies. Our oncologists, surgeons and other experts work together to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. With our cutting-edge technology and research-driven practices, we make sure you receive the best possible care.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with gallbladder cancer, our team at Banner MD Anderson is here to help.

What causes gallbladder cancer?

It’s not clear what exactly causes gallbladder cancer but older adults, women and people who have had gallstones or gallbladder inflammation are at higher risk. There are steps you can take to lower your risk of gallbladder cancer.

Learn more about gallbladder cancer risk factors and prevention.

What are the symptoms and types of gallbladder cancer?

Gallbladder cancer doesn’t usually cause symptoms until it’s more advanced. Symptoms like abdominal pain, jaundice, nausea, vomiting or weight loss could be caused by a lot of different health conditions, but it’s important to check for gallbladder cancer. 

Learn more about gallbladder cancer symptoms and types.

How is gallbladder cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosing gallbladder cancer usually starts with imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scan, MRI or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). You may also need a biopsy and lab tests to confirm a cancer diagnosis and show what type of cancer it is.

Learn more about gallbladder cancer testing and diagnosis.

How is gallbladder cancer treated?

Gallbladder cancer treatment depends on the stage and type of cancer. The main treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy.

Learn more about gallbladder cancer treatment and support

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