A Review of the Etiology and Epidemiology of Gallbladder Cancer: What You Need to Know

Abstract

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is the sixth most prevalent cancer of the gastrointestinal system but the most prevalent cancer of the biliary tract. This tumor is a highly fatal condition. The importance of early diagnosis cannot be overstated because GBC develops quietly with late detection. Several genetic and environmental variables have been associated with the onset of GBC. Cholelithiasis and chronic inflammation from the biliary tract and parasite infections are prime examples of environmental factors that significantly influence the development of GBC. Abnormal pancreaticobiliary duct junction and biliary cysts are examples of congenital causes. In the past decade, new imaging technologies and a more radical and aggressive surgical approach have improved patient outcomes and aided prolonged survival for GBC patients. This review article focuses on the epidemiology of GBC, its risk factors, and clinical characteristics.

TRIM37 promotes gallbladder cancer proliferation by activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway via ubiquitination of Axin1

“…GBC is the most common cancer in the biliary tract characterized by high mortality rates, late diagnosis and poor clinical presentation [ 14 , 15 ]. Despite advances in GBC therapy, the prognosis for most patients remains dismal.…”

New Developments in the Ultrasonography Diagnosis of Gallbladder Diseases

“…GBC usually develops from underlying chronic cholecystitis, especially porcelain gallbladder. Gallstones represent a risk factor according to some authors, especially if they are long-standing and large-sized (>3 cm) [127]. Symptoms are often late and unspecific (e.g., right upper quadrant pain, jaundice and weight loss) [124].…”

The Many Hidden Faces of Gallbladder Carcinoma on CT and MRI Imaging—From A to Z

“…Gallbladder cancer is the most common malignancy of the biliary tract and the sixth most common cancer of the gastrointestinal system [ 1 ]. According to GLOBOCAN estimates, gallbladder cancer is relatively rare and stands in 24th place among the most frequent type of cancers worldwide with more than 115,949 new cases in 2020 [ 2 , 3 ]. In the majority of cases, gallbladder carcinoma is asymptomatic or the clinical presentation is often vague, non-specific and discovered at an advanced stage [ 4 , 5 ].…”

“…The highest incidence occurs in South American countries, Chile, Ecuador, India, Pakistan, Japan and South Korea. Incidence of gallbladder cancer is 1–2 cases per 100,000 people [ 3 , 8 , 9 ]. However, gallbladder carcinoma still remains a relatively rare pathology with a poor prognosis and it usually presents at a very advanced stage [ 1 ].…”

“…However, gallbladder carcinoma still remains a relatively rare pathology with a poor prognosis and it usually presents at a very advanced stage [ 1 ]. Late-stage illness frequently manifests with anorexia, weight loss, abdominal pain and jaundice [ 3 ].…”