Gallbladder Malignancy: From Diagnosis to Staging

Abstract

Gallbladder (GB) cancer is an aggressive biliary malignancy with a silent clinical course, leading to delayed diagnosis and poor outcomes. Early detection and accurate staging are pivotal for guiding management, yet diagnosis remains challenging due to overlapping imaging features with benign pathologies. This review synthesizes the current state-of-the-art imaging modalities, including ultrasound (USG), multiphase computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET)/CT, and PET/MRI, highlighting their roles in diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. A systematic USG-based triaging helps in management decision. Algorithmic approach to GB masses and incidental GB polyps is also covered with future directives on artificial intelligence and radiomics.