Reviewed by: Melisa Darby, cancer nurse, RN,BN, Grad. Cert. Cancer Nursing
The gall bladder is a ‘bag' (like the bladder). It stores bile from the liver before it is passed into the small bowel, where the bile helps to digest food.
Gall bladder cancer is cancer that affects the gall bladder. It's sometimes found when the gall bladder is removed surgically for another reason.
Gall bladder cancer is uncommon. Around 170 people are affected by this cancer each year in Victoria.
People with a history of gall stones are more likely to develop gall bladder cancer. However, most people with gall stones do not get gall bladder cancer.
Generally, gall bladder cancer doesn't cause symptoms.
However, it can sometimes cause pain in the right side above the stomach. People with gall bladder cancer may also have symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, weakness and jaundice. Jaundice also can cause dark urine and pale bowel motions. Other signs include, fever, chills, poor appetite and weight loss.
If you have one of these symptoms, but haven't been diagnosed with this cancer, remember that it's rare, and your symptom is likely to be due to something else. However, see your doctor if any symptom persists for more than 2 weeks. Don't delay seeing a doctor if you have any signs of jaundice.
