The staging and patterns of presenation of gallbladder cancer

Abstract

Introduction: Gallbladder cancer is often a silent yet lethal disease. It is the most common biliary tract malignancy. The recognition of risk factors as well as prognostic features are of utmost importance. Early detection and surgery is associated with better outcomes. Aim: To describe the stage at presentation and presenting symptoms of gallbladder cancer at a tertiary institution, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH) in South Africa. Methods: This was a retrospective review that evaluated patients who presented with gallbladder cancer at CHBAH from 2016-2019. Results: A total of 269 suitable patients were included in our study. Diagnosis of gallbladder cancer was confirmed with histology or radiologically. Majority of our patients were female and the mean age at presentation was above the 5th decade. The predominant presenting sign was jaundice at presentation and only 22% of patients had associated gallstones. The majority of the patients (93.7%) presented with advanced disease and the median (IQR) days from diagnosis to death was 27 (13-44) days. Conclusion: Early detection and diagnosis of gallbladder cancer is crucial for better outcomes. The true incidence and burden of gallbladder cancer in South Africa is yet to be determined. Large prospective and collaborative studies are required to determine the true incidence and burden of GBC in a South African cohort.