Management of advanced gallbladder adenocarcinoma: A case report and review of treatment strategies.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is a rare but aggressive malignancy, accounting for most biliary tract cancers. It typically presents at an advanced stage, leading to a poor prognosis, with a mean survival of six months and a five-year survival rate of 17.6 %. Early detection is critical due to its insidious onset and rapid progression.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a case of a 46-year-old African male who presented with a two-week history of colicky abdominal pain. Diagnostic imaging revealed a gallbladder mass, and the patient underwent surgical resection followed by adjuvant therapy. Postoperative recovery was initially satisfactory; however, 18 months later, the patient developed peritoneal carcinomatosis and succumbed to the disease.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

This case highlights the challenges of managing GBC in resource-limited settings, where late-stage presentation is common. Early surgical intervention remains the mainstay of potentially curative treatment. Adjuvant therapies may improve outcomes but are often less effective in advanced disease stages.

CONCLUSION

Early detection and surgical management are pivotal for improving survival outcomes in gallbladder cancer. This case emphasizes the need for heightened clinical awareness and improved diagnostic capabilities in resource-constrained environments.