Introduction

In its early stages, gallbladder cancer is hard to find due to its small size and the position of the organ deep inside the body, says Dr Soumen Das, the best gallbladder cancer doctor in Kolkata.

Therefore, these cancers are usually not found until they cause complications that make a person go to a doctor.

Upon visit, the doctor will ask questions about health and conduct a physical exam. If the doctor discovers any signs pointing to gallbladder problems or cancer, more tests will be prescribed.

Tests to Diagnose Gallbladder Cancer

Blood tests: Blood tests are conducted to measure the amount of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is the chemical that provides bile with its yellow colour. A problem in the gallbladder, bile ducts, or liver can cause a high bilirubin level. Other blood tests indicate whether the liver is working correctly.

Ultrasound: This is the initial test used to look at the gallbladder. A small wand is moved on your skin that emits sound waves and picks up the echoes as they bounce off tissues. The echoes get converted into a picture on a computer screen.

CT or CAT scan: This test employ x-rays to form pictures of your insides. It shows the shape, size, and place of any tumours inside the gallbladder or near it.

MRI: This test is used to make clear pictures, using radio waves and strong magnets instead of x-rays. MRI scans show if tumours in the gallbladder are cancerous and whether cancer has spread to nearby blood vessels and other organs.

Cholangiogram: The test determines if there is a blockage in the bile ducts or if it has become narrowed or widened. The test helps doctors to plan the gall bladder cancer treatment.

Angiogram: This test examines the blood vessels around the gallbladder and is used to help plan surgery. It can be done in conjunction with an MRI or CT scan.

Laparoscopy: It is a type of surgery where a thin, lighted tube with a camera attached is inserted through a small incision on the belly. This allows the doctor to look at the gallbladder and other nearby body parts. This test helps plan surgery or other treatments. A biopsy can also be done with tools put into the tube.

Biopsy: Biopsy is the leading way of diagnosing any cancer, says Dr Soumen Das, the best gallbladder cancer doctor in Kolkata. A small piece of tissue gets taken out to test for cancer using a surgical tool during laparoscopic surgery. A biopsy, however, is not always needed for gallbladder cancer. Suppose other tests discover a tumour only in the gallbladder. In that case, the entire gallbladder may be taken out and then tested for cancer cells.

Conclusion

Usually, gallbladder cancer does not cause any signs or symptoms until it grows and starts to spread. However, sometimes symptoms can appear in the early stages and lead to an early diagnosis. If the cancer is found in its early stages, the chance of successful gallbladder cancer treatment is high. Therefore, if you experience any symptoms like persistent belly pain, jaundice, nausea or vomiting, consult Dr Soumen Das, without delay, to get the best gallbladder cancer treatment in Kolkata.