Gallbladder: Structure, Function, Diseases and Treatment Options

What is the gallbladder?

The gallbladder is a small but important organ of the digestive system, located under the liver. It has a pear-shaped form and a length of approximately 8-10 cm. Its main function is to store and concentrate bile, which the liver produces to aid in the digestion of fats.

Function of the gallbladder

After food leaves the stomach during the digestive process, it enters the small intestine. The gallbladder releases the stored bile into the intestine, facilitating the digestion of fats. Bile breaks down the fats in food into smaller droplets, allowing pancreatic enzymes to work more efficiently. Additionally, bile emulsifies the fats adhering to the inner surface of the intestines, increasing their absorption. For this reason, the gallbladder is a fundamental component for the proper functioning of the digestive system.

Gallbladder diseases and their symptoms

The gallbladder is susceptible to various diseases that can cause pain, discomfort, and digestive problems.

1. Gallstones (Cholelithiasis)

Gallstones form when there is an imbalance in the composition of bile, most often due to the accumulation of cholesterol or bilirubin. Symptoms include:

• Acute abdominal pain,
• Nausea and vomiting,
• Jaundice,
• Digestive problems.

2. Gallbladder inflammation (Cholecystitis)

Gallbladder inflammation is usually caused by gallstones. Gallstones can damage the gallbladder wall and lead to infection. Cholecystitis is characterized by sudden and severe abdominal pain, high temperature, nausea, and vomiting. If left untreated, this condition can lead to serious complications.

3. Gallbladder cancer

Gallbladder cancer is characterized by the growth of malignant cells on the inner surface of the gallbladder. This is a rare type of cancer and usually progresses without clearly expressed symptoms. Treatment options depend on the stage of the disease and usually include surgical intervention, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

In later stages, it may present with:

• Abdominal pain,
• Weight loss,
• Jaundice.

4. Gallbladder polyps

Gallbladder polyps are small tumors that form on the inner surface of the gallbladder. In most cases, they are harmless, but some can develop into malignant tumors. For this reason, doctors often closely monitor polyps and recommend treatment when necessary.

5. Gallbladder dysfunction

Gallbladder dysfunction represents an impaired ability of the organ to secrete bile or to empty it effectively, where the gallbladder cannot properly release bile or does not empty as it should. This can lead to chronic abdominal pain, bloating, digestive problems, and intolerance to fatty foods.

Methods for treating gallbladder diseases

Gallbladder diseases may require different therapeutic approaches depending on the severity of symptoms, the type of disease, and the overall health condition of the patient.

• Medication treatment - antibiotics and painkillers for inflammatory conditions.
• Dietary changes - avoiding fatty foods.
• Surgical treatment (Cholecystectomy) - removal of the gallbladder in severe cases of gallstones or inflammation.
• Endoscopic procedures - used for removing stones and unblocking biliary tracts.

Early diagnosis can help with more effective treatment, so it is important to consult a medical specialist when symptoms or concerns related to the gallbladder are present. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, balanced nutrition, and following doctor's recommendations can help prevent gallbladder diseases.