There are several types of gallbladder cancer. Adenocarcinoma, which makes up approximately 85% of all gallbladder cancer diagnoses, usually starts in the epithelial cells (mucous-releasing cells) that line the inside of the gallbladder.²

Other types of gallbladder cancer may include:

• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Sarcoma
• Lymphoma

Diagnosis of gallbladder cancer in the early stages can be difficult as it may not cause symptoms. Symptoms of gallbladder cancer may include:²

• Abdominal (tummy) pain, usually on the upper right side
• Nausea or vomiting
• High temperature (fever)
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)
• Dark yellow urine or pale coloured stools
• Itchy skin (without a visible rash)
• A lump in the abdomen
• Feeling weak or fatigued
• Unexplained weight loss

Having any of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have gallbladder cancer; however, if you have any queries or concerns, it is recommended to speak with your GP or specialist.

It is not clear what causes gallbladder cancer; however, risk factors can include:^2,5

• Family history, via a first-degree relative who has had gallbladder cancer (parent or sibling)
• Being overweight or obese increases the risk of getting gallstones, which in-turn may increase the risk of gallbladder cancer
• Someone who has had gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder
• Smoking 
• Gallbladder and bile duct conditions, which may include gallbladder polyps, choledochal cysts (bile-filled cysts) and calcified gallbladder (known also as porcelain gallbladder).
• The risk of being diagnosed with gallbladder cancer increases with age

If you have any questions or concerns relating to the potential causes of gallbladder cancer, please speak with your GP or specialist.

Following an appointment with your GP, they may refer you to a specialist for tests and scans. These tests may include:²

• Physical examination
  
• Blood tests
• Scans – that may include a computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, endoscopic ultrasound or ultrasound
• Cholangiography (an x-ray of the bile duct)
• Laparoscopy (or keyhole camera investigation surgery)

Regarded as the main treatment option for gallbladder cancer, and could involve gallbladder removal.²

Radiation therapy - Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other particles to treat cancer and can be used at all stages.²

Chemotherapy is an approach to cancer therapy that involves the administration of medicine, usually orally or by injection, which is intended to kill cancer cells or minimise their growth and spread. Chemotherapy can be used in conjunction with other cancer treatments.^2,6

All cancer treatments may have side effects.^7,8 The type and severity of side effects will vary between individuals.^7,8 You can ask your doctor for detailed information about the side effects that you may experience with any treatment recommended for you.

Whilst there are some things you can try which might help minimise/cope with any treatment side effects, you should also speak with your treatment team for further guidance:

• Rest when needed – it is important to acknowledge when you are fatigued and rest when you need to^7,8
• Aim to maintain a healthy diet.⁷ You can speak with your clinician regarding the design of a suitable eating plan during your treatment
• Appetite changes are common, and you may experience taste changes or nausea. Help manage this by eating small, frequent snacks and avoiding smells that make you nauseous ⁷
• Drink adequate water
• Ask for and accept help from family, friends and neighbours⁸
  
• Reach out to support groups and others who have had cancer treatment⁸
• Be open with employers about your treatment and discuss flexible working options if you need them.
• Record your side effects in a diary or journal⁹
• Speak to your doctor about incorporating some gentle exercise into your weekly routine^7,8