What is Gallbladder Cancer?

Gallbladder cancer is cancer that starts in the gallbladder, which is a small, pear-shaped organ in the abdomen. The gallbladder is approximately 3-4 inches long and 1 inch wide, and is located just beneath the liver. The gallbladder's primary function is to store bile, a substance that is produced in the liver and helps the body digest food. As food is being digested, the gallbladder releases bile into the small intestine.

There are three layers (inner, middle, and outer) in the wall of the gallbladder, which are separated by connective tissue. Gallbladder cancer usually begins in the inner layer and grows outward through the wall.