A rare form of cancer, gallbladder cancer is a form that starts in this small organ, and can often be hard to diagnose.
Gallbladder – What it is
The gallbladder is a small pear-shaped organ that is on the underside of the liver. The main function of this organ is to hold the bile from the liver until it is needed in the intestines. Bile is important as it breaks down the fat particles in the digestive tract to use as waste or metabolize to useful strength.
Gallbladder Cancer – Hard to detect
Gallbladder cancer is not a common type of cancer. It can also be very hard to detect. The biggest reason for this is that in the early stages there are no very discernible symptoms. Another big reason cancer may go undetected is found within the anatomy of the gallbladder itself. Since it is a small organ, that is hidden under the liver, the cancer has time to grow without being detected.
Gallbladder Cancer – Symptoms
There are a few different symptoms that are associated with this cancer that are also common with other gallbladder diseases. However, the important factor ineffective treatment for gallbladder cancer symptoms is to have it discovered quickly. When this type of cancer is detected early, it can be treated rather successfully. However, if the symptoms are overlooked for a long period of time, and the cancer is allowed to grow, the prognosis becomes much bleaker.
Some of the symptoms of gallbladder cancer include abdominal pain in the upper right area, bloating, itchiness, fever, a loss of appetite, nausea, yellowing of the skin, and a loss of weight without dieting.
Risk Factors For Gallbladder Cancer
While doctors do not know the real cause of gallbladder cancer, they can identify some of the risk factors. Women are more susceptible to gallbladder cancer than men and the risk increases with age. Also, if you have a history of gallstones there is a slight chance of having cancer. A history of another gallbladder disease can also contribute to cancer.
Consult Doctor If Showing Symptoms
Once the onset of any type of symptoms begins to show themselves you will want to consult a doctor quickly. Once your appointment is set they will want to begin running some tests and getting a diagnosis to begin treatment if necessary. During this time it is also important that you get as much information as you can on gallbladder cancer.
Stages of Gallbladder Cancer
Stage I – The cancer is in the beginning stages and is only in the gallbladder itself.
Stage II – Cancer has spread to the outside layer of the gallbladder and may be spreading to the other organs.
Stage III – Cancer has grown enough to invade nearby organs and even into the hepatic ducts.
Stage IV – Contains large tumors and has spread to other distant areas of the body.
Treating Gallbladder Cancer
The treatments available really depend on the stage of cancer you are in. Treatments can range from removing the gall bladder to contain cancer or more elaborate treatments with radiation or chemotherapy. The sooner you consult your doctor, the better you can treat this type of rare cancer.