Gallbladder cancer
Treating gallbladder cancer
The main treatment for gallbladder cancer is surgery to remove the gallbladder and possibly some of the surrounding tissue.
Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are also sometimes used, either on their own or in combination with surgery.
The treatment programme that's most suitable for you will depend on:
- the type of gallbladder cancer you have
- the stage of your cancer
- your overall level of health
As with all cancers, the chances of survival depend on how far the condition has advanced when it is diagnosed.
For example, if the cancerous cellsare confined to the gallbladder lining, yourchances of living for more than five years are good (about 80%).
However, if gallbladder cancer has spread into the surrounding tissue or lymph nodes, your chances of living for at least five years are much lower (30%).
The Cancer Research UK website has more information about treatinggallbladder cancer and the stages and outlook for gallbladder cancer .
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Gallbladder cancer is very rare. Around 800 people in the UK are diagnosed with the condition each year.
Symptoms of gallbladder cancer
In the early stages, gallbladder cancer doesn't cause symptoms, whichmeans it could be at an advanced stage by the time it's diagnosed. Symptoms that occur at a later stage can include: abdominal (
What causes gallbladder cancer?
In gallbladder cancer, abnormal cells grow within the gallbladder. It's not known why this happens, but certain things are thought to increase your chances of developing the condition. Gallbladder ca
Diagnosing gallbladder cancer
Your GP will examine you and ask about your symptoms. If they suspect gallbladder cancer, they may refer you to a specialist, usually a gastroenterologist (a doctor who specialises in conditions of th
Treating gallbladder cancer
The main treatment for gallbladder cancer is surgery to remove the gallbladder and possibly some of the surrounding tissue. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are also sometimes used, either on their o
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