Cancer of the large intestine and previous cholecystectomy: does a relationship really exist?

The possible relationship between cancer of the large intestine and previous cholecystectomy has been studied both experimentally and clinically but the results are contradictory. The present study, carried out in 250 patients undergoing intestinal resection for colorectal cancer and in 200 subjects who underwent cholecystectomy more than 10 years previously (with control groups) did not evidence any statistically significant relation (p = 0.2) between cholecystectomy and cancer of the large intestine. On the basis also of data from the literature, the etiopathogenetic hypotheses of the supporters of such relationship are reviewed and the different factors potentially able to explain the discrepancy between the concordant results of experimental studies and the contrasting ones of the clinical and epidemiologic experiences are examined. From the practical point of view, it is felt that a periodic (once a year) clinical and laboratory (guaiac test) control followed, when necessary, by x-ray/and or endoscopic examination should be carried out in all the patients over the age of 40, cholecystectomized since 10 years of longer, especially if females.