CARCINOMA OF GALLBLADDER

**CARCINOMA OF GALLBLADDER **

Carcinoma of the gallbladder is a type of cancer that originates in the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver that stores bile.

Definition

• Carcinoma of the gallbladder is a type of adenocarcinoma, which is a cancer that originates in glandular tissue.

Types

• Papillary carcinoma: This type of cancer has long, finger-like projections and is more common in men.
• Tubular adenocarcinoma: This type of cancer has a tubular or tube-like structure and is more common in women.
• Mucinous adenocarcinoma: This type of cancer has a mucous-producing glandular structure.

Risk Factors

• Gallstones: People with gallstones are at a higher risk of developing gallbladder cancer.
• Chronic inflammation: Chronic inflammation of the gallbladder can increase the risk of cancer.
• Lifestyle factors: Smoking, obesity, and a diet high in fat may increase the risk of gallbladder cancer.

Pathophysiology and Progression Stages

• Stage 1: Cancer is confined to the gallbladder and has not spread to surrounding tissues.
• Stage 2: Cancer has spread to surrounding tissues but has not reached nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage 3: Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes and may have reached distant organs.
• Stage 4: Cancer has spread to distant organs and has a poor prognosis.

Clinical Manifestations

• Abdominal pain
• Jaundice
• Weight loss
• Fever
• Chills

Diagnostic Workup

• Liver function tests (LFTs)
• Tumor markers: CA 19-9 and CEA
• Imaging studies:
  • Ultrasound (USG)
  • Computed tomography (CT)
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP)
  • Positron emission tomography (PET)

TNM Staging System

• T: Size and extent of the tumor
• N: Number and location of lymph nodes
• M: Presence of distant metastases

Complications and Prognosis

• Complications: Jaundice, infection, and perforation of the gallbladder
• Prognosis: Poor, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 5%

Homoeopathic Therapeutics

• Arsenic album 200: For pain and inflammation
• Bryonia 200: For pain and inflammation
• Calcarea carbonica 200: For weight loss and fatigue
• Lycopodium 200: For weight loss and fatigue
• Phosphorus 200: For jaundice and liver dysfunction