Published online Feb 21, 2026. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v32.i7.113845
Revised: October 25, 2025
Accepted: December 10, 2025
Published online: February 21, 2026
Processing time: 155 Days and 0.6 Hours
Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is the most prevalent malignant tumor of the biliary tract and remains associated with poor survival outcomes due to its aggressive biological behavior and typically late diagnosis. Regional differences in incidence and outcomes emphasize the need for country-specific data. In Brazil such in
To evaluate the clinicopathological characteristics, therapeutic approaches, and survival outcomes of patients with GBC treated at a high-volume cancer center in Brazil.
This retrospective study analyzed 364 patients with histologically confirmed gallbladder adenocarcinoma treated at a high-volume Brazilian cancer center from 2010 to 2024. Clinical, pathological, and treatment-related variables were analyzed. Patients were stratified into incidental GBC (IGBC) and non-IGBC groups.
The cohort was predominantly female (78.8%) with a mean age of 62.1 years. Most patients (72.3%) presented with stage IV disease. IGBC accounted for 54.1% of cases and showed significantly improved survival compared with non-IGBC [median overall survival (OS): 18 months vs 7 months; P < 0.001]. Radical surgery was performed in 13.5% of patients, achieving a 5-year OS of 57.5%. Independent predictors of worse OS included poor performance status [Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group > 2; hazard ratio (HR) = 1.91], advanced T stage (T3: HR = 4.38; T4: HR = 5.24), metastasis (M1; HR = 2.76), and non-IGBC diagnosis (HR = 1.35).
GBC in Brazil commonly presents at advanced stages, restricting curative options. IGBC is more prevalent and has better outcomes. Radical surgery confers the best prognosis but remains feasible in a minority of patients.
Core Tip: This retrospective study evaluated the clinicopathological characteristics, treatment strategies, and survival outcomes of patients with gallbladder carcinoma (GBC) treated at a high-volume cancer center in Brazil. Most patients presented with advanced stage disease, limiting curative options. Incidental GBC was more frequent than non-incidental cases and associated with significantly better survival. Radical surgery although feasible in a minority provided the best long-term outcomes. These findings highlighted the importance of early detection and timely referral to specialized hepatobiliary centers to improve prognosis in GBC.