Gallbladder Cancer: Recognizing Right Upper Quadrant Pain and Early Diagnosis Methods for Cholelithiasis

The gallbladder cancer (GBC) is a malignant neoplasm that, although relatively rare, represents the most common type of cancer of the biliary tract. Its early diagnosis is crucial due to its insidious nature and tendency to be detected at advanced stages, resulting in a generally unfavorable prognosis. Most cases of GBC are discovered incidentally after a cholecystectomy performed for presumed benign disease, such as cholelithiasis [1].

The symptoms of GBC are often nonspecific, complicating its early detection. Patients may present with right upper quadrant pain, jaundice, unexplained weight loss, and abdominal discomfort, symptoms that can easily be confused with other biliary pathologies [2]. The lack of specific symptoms contributes to the diagnosis being made at advanced stages, when therapeutic options are limited and the prognosis is poor [3].

Diving Deeper into Early Diagnosis

The early diagnosis of GBC is a challenge due to the absence of specific symptoms and the lack of reliable biomarkers. However, advances in imaging technologies and molecular techniques are opening new avenues for early detection. Cholangiography, along with other imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are essential tools for assessing the extent of the disease and planning treatment [4].

Furthermore, research into molecular biomarkers is ongoing to improve risk stratification and therapy selection. Recent studies have identified genetic variants and molecular alterations that could serve as markers for early diagnosis and personalized treatment selection [5].

The use of liquid biopsies and artificial intelligence (AI) is also emerging as promising methods for non-invasive detection and real-time monitoring of GBC. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize the diagnosis of GBC, although they still require validation and standardization before clinical implementation [6].

Conclusions

The early diagnosis of gallbladder cancer remains a significant challenge in clinical practice. Identifying nonspecific symptoms, such as right upper quadrant pain, and utilizing advanced imaging techniques and molecular biomarkers are essential for improving therapeutic outcomes. Multidisciplinary collaboration and ongoing research are fundamental to developing innovative strategies that enhance diagnostic accuracy and ultimately improve outcomes for patients with GBC.

Referencias

• [1] Current management of incidental gallbladder cancer: A review.
• [2] Gallbladder cancer.
• [3] Gallbladder cancer.
• [4] Advances and current research status of early diagnosis for gallbladder cancer.
• [5] Current and New Biomarkers for Early Detection, Prognostic Stratification, and Management of Gallbladder Cancer Patients.
• [6] Single-cell RNA sequencing highlights the functional role of human endogenous retroviruses in gallbladder cancer.

Created 13/1/2025