Gall bladder cancer

At the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre we know that a cancer diagnosis is a life changing event. We also know that every cancer is different, just like every person is different. We are dedicated to supporting and guiding you throughout your care. On this page you can learn about symptoms of gall bladder cancer, the potential treatment pathway and meet our treatment team.

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What is gall bladder cancer?

The gall bladder is a small organ between the liver and the small intestine. It stores bile created by the liver to release into the small intestine. Bile helps digest fats.

Cancer of the gall bladder is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the organ. It is rare and there a number of different types that can occur. This is because the gall bladder is made up of many different types of cells.

What are the symptoms of gall bladder cancer?

In some instances you won’t feel anything at all. This is because gall bladder cancer often does not cause symptoms until it starts affecting other parts of the body. If there are symptoms these can include:

  • Pain in the upper right side of the belly
  • Bloated belly
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Weakness
  • Pale bowel motions
  • Dark urine
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Itchiness

CONTACT

Cancer Nurse Co-ordinator

+61 3 9496 4607

1800 134 864 - country patient toll free (extension 4607)

131 450 - free telephone interpreter service (TIS)

OUT OF HOURS

On Call Oncology Registrar via Austin Health switchboard

+ 61 3 9496 5000

Next steps

If you have any of these symptoms please see your doctor. They will advise if you need tests and where you should to have these tests. This is an important step in your care and will help your specialists build your optimal treatment pathway. 

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Can I be treated at the ONJ Centre?

Once you have been diagnosed with cancer, your doctor or specialist can make a referral to the ONJ Centre for your cancer treatment. You can ask to be referred here, regardless of your insurance status or the stage of your treatment. The ONJ Centre is part of Austin Health, a leading Australian public hospital.

how to get a referral