Imaging of Gallbladder Cancer

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is an uncommon but lethal malignancy, often identified incidentally during the evaluation of patients with cholelithiasis. The nonspecific and subtle clinical manifestations of early-stage GBC frequently result in delayed diagnoses and poor prognoses. This chapter provides a comprehensive review of the current imaging modalities and their roles in the diagnosis, staging, and management of GBC. Ultrasonography (US), the first-line imaging tool, is limited in its ability to differentiate between benign and early malignant conditions. The advent of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) offers promise in early GBC detection. Advanced imaging techniques, including computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are essential for accurate staging and treatment planning, with MRI being particularly effective for local tumor assessment. The chapter emphasizes the importance of early detection and precise imaging in improving patient outcomes and discusses recent advancements in radiologic practices for the evaluation of GBC.