Epidemiological and Outcome Study of Gallbladder Cancer Patients from North Indian - Centre's Experience

Abstract

Background: Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is one of the most aggressive malignancies of the biliary tract, with high prevalence in the Gangetic belt of North India. Diagnosis is often delayed, leading to poor outcomes.

Aim: To analyze the epidemiological profile, risk factors, clinical presentation, and outcomes of GBC patients treated at a tertiary care center in Rajasthan.

Methods: Sixty consecutive patients diagnosed with GBC between December 2023 and July 2024 were prospectively studied. Demographic data, risk factors, clinical features, investigations, staging, treatment modalities, and follow-up were recorded. Diagnosis was confirmed by imaging (ultrasound/CT). Management was based on current guidelines and included curative or palliative treatment as appropriate.

Results: The mean age of presentation was 51.8 years, with female predominance (73.3%, male-to-female ratio 1:2.7). Majority of patients belonged to rural backgrounds. Gallstones were present in 80%, obesity in 40%, multiparity in 57.5%, and diabetes in 21.6%. Pain abdomen (94%), jaundice (65%), abdominal fullness (60%), and pruritus (53.3%) were the most common presenting symptoms. At diagnosis, 73.4% had advanced disease (stage III/IV), with metastasis seen in 80%—commonly in the liver (60%) and omentum (33%). Curative surgery was feasible in only 26.6% patients, while 40% required biliary drainage (SEMS/PTBD). Overall prognosis remained poor, consistent with previous Indian studies.

Conclusion: GBC is common in North India, predominantly affecting postmenopausal females with gallstones. Most patients present with advanced disease, limiting curative options. Early recognition and risk-based screening in high-incidence regions may improve outcomes