Carcinoma of the gallbladder is associated with gallstones.

Carcinoma of the gallbladder is the most common tumour of the gallbladder and is usually associated with the presence of gallstones and chronic cholecystitis.

Most cases are seen in women over the age of 70 years.

Most tumours arise in the fundus and, histologically,are moderately differentiated adenocarcinomas.

Prognosis is poor, with a five-year survival rate of under 5%.
 
Infiltration of local structures, mainly the liver, makes curative surgery difficult.

Adenocarcinoma of the gallbladder is seen as a raised, ulcerated area in the fundus. Most tumours have invaded through the wall at the time of diagnosis.
Spread is via lymphatics, as well as by direct growth into adjacent organs.