GALLBLADDER CANCER

ALTERNATE NAMES

Gallbladder Adenocarcinoma; Gallbladder Carcinoma

DESCRIPTION

Gallbladder cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the innermost layer of the gallbladder and then spread through the outer layers. The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ below the liver that collects and stores bile (a fluid made by the liver to digest fat).

Risk factors for gallbladder cancer are greatest for females and American Indian persons.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTING, PHYSICAL FINDINGS, AND ICD-9-CM/ICD-10-CM CODING

Diagnostic testing: Gallbladder cancer is diagnosed with:

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  Ultrasound exam;

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  Blood tests including liver function tests, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) assay, and CA 19-9 assay;

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  Computerized tomography (CT) scan;

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  Chest x-ray;

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  Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI);

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  Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA);

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  Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC);

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  Endoscopy;

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  Biopsy; and

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  Laparoscopy.

Physical findings: Individuals with gallbladder cancer may present with:

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  Jaundice;

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  Palpable mass in the right upper quadrant;

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  Periumbilical lymphadenopathy;

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  Left supraclavicular adenopathy; and

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  Unexplained weight loss.

Other symptoms may include:

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  Abdominal pain;

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  Fever, nausea and vomiting;

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  Bloating;

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  Anorexia; and

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  Bloating.

ICD-9: 156.00

PROGRESSION

Gallbladder cancer can invade the liver or it can disseminate into lymph nodes or can spread as intra-peritoneal metastases.

TREATMENT

Gallbladder cancer can be cured only if the disease is found before it has spread, and it can be removed by surgery.

Suggested MER for Evaluation:

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  Clinical history and examination that describes the diagnostic features of the impairment;

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  Imaging (e.g. x-ray, MRI, MRA, CT scans);

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  Results of ultrasound testing;

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  Results of blood chemistry testing;

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  Operative report; and

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  Pathology report.

Suggested Listings for Evaluation:

DETERMINATION

LISTING

REMARKS

Meets

13.19

Gallbladder cancer meets the criteria in 13.19.

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