Gallbladder cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the gallbladder, a small organ located near the liver that collects and stores bile. Bile is a fluid produced by the liver to help digest fats. This cancer typically begins in the innermost layer of the gallbladder tissue and progresses through the outer layers as it grows. Most gallbladder cancers are adenocarcinomas, meaning they’re located in the surface area tissue of the organ.

The gastrointestinal cancer experts at Penn Medicine have deep experience in gallbladder cancer diagnosis and treatment. Our multidisciplinary team of cancer specialists includes gastroenterologists, radiologists, pathologists, and surgeons who work together to find the treatments and support services that are right for you.

In the early stages, there aren’t many noticeable symptoms of gallbladder cancer, which can make diagnosis difficult. As the disease progresses, signs of gallbladder cancer can include:

• Abdominal pain 
• Nausea and vomiting 
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes, called jaundice 
• Unintended weight loss 
• Bloating 
• Fever

Experts can’t say for certain what causes gallbladder cancer. It’s rare for cancer to originate in the gallbladder—most cases of cancer found in the gallbladder have spread from other parts of the body. However, several factors can increase your risk of developing gallbladder cancer:

• Gallstones: The most significant risk factor, they’re present in most gallbladder cancer cases. 
• Gallbladder polyps: Small, non-cancerous growths in the gallbladder can sometimes develop into cancer. 
• Chronic inflammation: Conditions that cause chronic gallbladder inflammation can increase the risk of cancer. 
• Gender and age: Gallbladder cancer is more common in people assigned female at birth and older adults. 
• Obesity: Excess body weight is linked to an increased risk of gallbladder cancer. 
• Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups, including Native Americans, have higher rates of gallbladder cancer.

Getting an accurate diagnosis is the critical first step in developing personalized treatment options for gallbladder cancer. Our expert cancer specialists use modern diagnostic tools and are dedicated to researching innovative approaches to improve the detection and treatment of gallbladder cancer.

Gallbladder cancer requires exceptional skill and training for successful treatment. Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, or other therapies. Our team of cancer experts uses advanced scientific research to develop a customized treatment plan that will give you the best possible result.

Learn more about gallbladder cancer treatment at Penn Medicine.

Our specialists combine decades of expertise with compassionate care to treat individuals with gallbladder cancer. We support you throughout your treatment, maintaining close contact and ensuring you can reach us anytime.

When you partner with us, you can expect:

• Cancer surgery expertise: We regularly treat a high number of patients with both rare and complex gallbladder cancers. Many of our surgeons are leaders in the field, successfully performing highly technical procedures to remove cancers that other centers may consider inoperable. 
• Promising therapies: Our specialists follow the latest research developments. We use the most advanced treatments available, including proton therapy, which is a specialized radiation therapy, and drugs that target cancer at the molecular level. 
• In-depth collaboration: No two cancers are alike. That’s why our medical oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists work in teams, talking often and coordinating your care closely. When we work together, you get the best care. 
• Extensive support: Our cancer nurse navigators provide one-on-one support. They listen to your concerns, provide information, and ensure you promptly receive all necessary appointments for tests and consultations.

Your Penn Medicine care team is committed to providing long-term care for your greatest success. Our team personalizes a follow-up plan so we can monitor your health, including any side effects, after treatment ends.