The gallbladder, located near the liver, is responsible for storing bile, a fluid produced by the liver to aid in fat digestion. The cause of gallbladder cancer is unknown; however, some researchers believe there may be a genetic component of the disease (e.g., genetic mutation), making certain people more susceptible to developing this form of cancer. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) estimates that approximately 9,700 people were diagnosed with gallbladder cancer in 2009. Individuals who develop this type of cancer may exhibit symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), fever, pain or unexplained weight loss. The NCI and the American Cancer Society (ACS) provide comprehensive information regarding the treatment options available to individuals with gallbladder cancer.
Surgery
Though the gallbladder is helpful in maintaining the normal function of the digestive tract, it is not necessary for survival. Potentially curative surgery is performed if your doctor believes that removal of your gallbladder will result in the removal of all cancer cells. The side effects of gallbladder surgery can be significant, so it is important that you discuss all treatment options with your medical care provider.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy destroys cancer cells by utilizing high-energy particles, or rays. The primary types of radiation therapy used to treat gallbladder cancer act to kill cancer cells by using an X-ray machine. Typically, radiation therapy is administered five days a week over the course of several weeks. Radiation therapy itself is a painless process; however, normal, healthy cells can also be destroyed during therapy, which may cause side effects such as severe fatigue, nausea and vomiting; these are typically resolved once treatment stops.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses oral or intravenous (IV) medications to combat the spread of cancer throughout the body. The primary benefit of this type of therapy is that the medications enter the bloodstream, enabling them to attack cancer cells in all regions of the body. Though chemotherapy treatment is typically not recommended for gallbladder cancer, it can be helpful if provided after gallbladder surgery or in conjunction with radiation therapy. Normally, chemotherapy is provided daily for a cycle of three to four weeks, after which the body is allowed to rest before beginning another treatment cycle. Side effects can include hair loss, nausea, vomiting, fatigue and mouth sores; these typically resolve once treatment stops. Individuals undergoing chemotherapy are also more susceptible to infection, bruising and bleeding.
Palliative Therapy
Palliative therapy and surgery are intended to help relieve symptoms associated with gallbladder cancer, not to cure the condition itself. If your gallbladder cancer has spread to surrounding organs, such as the liver or intestine, palliative surgery may be performed to provide pain relief or prevent further complications, such as bile duct blockage. Additional palliative therapies to help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with gallbladder cancer include biliary catheter, biliary bypass, alcohol injections and pain medications.
