Gallbladder cancer is one of the lesser-discussed gastrointestinal cancers, yet it is more common in Eastern India, including West Bengal. Over the past decade, doctors in Kolkata—especially in the southern regions like Garia, Jadavpur, Tollygunge, Behala, Kasba, Ballygunge, EM Bypass, and Santoshpur—have witnessed rising cases, often detected at advanced stages because symptoms tend to remain silent early on.

In such scenarios, choosing the right gallbladder cancer specialist becomes the most crucial decision. Many patients specifically prefer consulting a female gallbladder cancer doctor in South Kolkata because they feel more comfortable discussing symptoms, fears, and treatment uncertainties with a female specialist who offers compassionate and empathetic care alongside advanced medical expertise.

Among the very few highly qualified female cancer specialists in Kolkata, Dr. Pallabika Mandal (M.Ch, Surgical Oncology, AIIMS New Delhi) stands out as one of the top female gallbladder cancer doctors in South Kolkata. She is known for her precision-driven surgeries, minimally invasive approaches, and warm, patient-first consultations. Her specialization covers hepatobiliary cancers, including gallbladder, liver, and bile duct cancers.

This in-depth guide explains gallbladder cancer symptoms, causes, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and why a specialist like Dr. Mandal is essential for successful outcomes.

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Understanding Gallbladder Cancer — A Silent Disease

The gallbladder is a small pouch beneath the liver that stores bile. Gallbladder cancer begins when abnormal cells start growing uncontrollably in the gallbladder lining. The reason this cancer is often dangerous is because:

• It progresses without strong symptoms
• It is located deep in the abdomen
• Early warning signs are often mistaken for acidity, gas, or gallstones

By the time noticeable symptoms appear, the disease may already be advanced.

That’s why consulting a gallbladder cancer specialist in Kolkata at the earliest signs is crucial.

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Early Symptoms of Gallbladder Cancer

Gallbladder cancer typically shows mild or vague symptoms that patients often ignore. Here are the most common ones:

1. Persistent Abdominal Pain

Usually in the upper right side of the abdomen. Often confused with gallstones.

2. Nausea & Vomiting

3. Unexplained Weight Loss

4. Loss of Appetite

5. Jaundice

Yellowish eyes or skin occurs when cancer blocks the bile ducts.

6. Fever or Persistent Fatigue

7. Abdominal Swelling or a Lump

Found in later stages when cancer spreads.

8. Itching of Skin

Due to bile duct obstruction.

These symptoms may not always mean cancer, but if you live in Kolkata—where gallbladder cancer prevalence is higher—it is wise to get evaluated by a gallbladder cancer specialist in South Kolkata.

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Who Is at Higher Risk?

Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of gallbladder cancer:

1. Gallstones (Primary Risk Factor)

Most patients with gallbladder cancer have a long history of gallstones.

2. Female Gender

Women are more prone due to hormonal influences—this makes the role of a female gallbladder cancer doctor even more important for patient comfort.

3. Obesity

4. Chronic Gallbladder Inflammation

Recurrent infections or cholecystitis.

5. Porcelain Gallbladder

Calcium deposits in the gallbladder wall.

6. Family History of Gallbladder Cancer

7. Lifestyle Factors

High-fat diet, smoking, or certain environmental exposures.

8. Older Age

Mostly affects individuals above 50.

Early evaluation dramatically increases survival chances, which is why choosing a specialist like Dr. Pallabika Mandal can be life-changing.

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How Gallbladder Cancer Is Diagnosed — Step-by-Step Process

As one of the top gallbladder cancer doctors in South Kolkata, Dr. Pallabika Mandal follows a structured diagnosis approach.

1. Clinical Evaluation

Understanding symptoms, lifestyle, past gallstone history, and family risks.

2. Ultrasound

Often the first test. Identifies gallbladder wall thickening, masses, or stones.

3. CT Scan / MRI / MRCP

Helps detect:

• Tumor size
• Spread to liver
• Bile duct involvement

4. Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)

Gives more accurate images of the gallbladder wall.

5. Biopsy (When Needed)

6. Liver Function Tests

Especially important when jaundice is present.

This multi-layered approach ensures accurate diagnosis and proper treatment planning.

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Treatment Options for Gallbladder Cancer

The best treatment plan depends on the cancer stage and overall health of the patient. Dr. Pallabika Mandal offers complete, personalized cancer care using globally accepted treatment protocols.

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1. Surgery — The Most Important Treatment

Surgery is the main and most effective treatment for early gallbladder cancer.

Types of surgeries performed by gallbladder cancer specialists:

✔ Simple Cholecystectomy

Removal of the gallbladder. Useful for very early cancers found accidentally.

✔ Radical Cholecystectomy

Involves removing:

• Gallbladder
• Part of the liver
• Nearby lymph nodes

This is the gold standard surgery for most gallbladder cancers.

✔ Extended Liver Resection

Required when cancer spreads deeper.

Why Dr. Mandal is preferred for gallbladder cancer surgeries:

• M.Ch from AIIMS (India’s top institute)
• Expertise in hepatobiliary cancer surgeries
• High success rate
• Clear communication & supportive counseling
• Excellent pre- and postoperative care

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2. Chemotherapy

Used before or after surgery depending on stage.

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3. Radiation Therapy

Helps shrink tumors or relieve symptoms in advanced cases.

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4. Palliative Care

Improves quality of life in late-stage cancers.

Dr. Pallabika Mandal ensures that each patient receives a personalized treatment approach based on tumor behavior, stage, and overall health.

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Why Choose Dr. Pallabika Mandal as the Top Female Gallbladder Cancer Doctor in South Kolkata?

1. Strong Academic Credentials

• M.Ch in Surgical Oncology from AIIMS, New Delhi
• One of the highest qualifications in India for cancer care

2. Specialized Expertise

She is among the rare female surgeons in Kolkata specializing in:

• Hepatobiliary cancers
• Gallbladder & bile duct cancers
• Pancreatic cancers
• Gastrointestinal cancers

3. Patient-Friendly Approach

Women often feel more comfortable discussing symptoms with a female doctor who understands their concerns emotionally as well as medically.

4. Skilled in Minimally Invasive & Advanced Surgeries

5. Trusted by Patients Across South Kolkata

Especially from:

• Garia
• Tollygunge
• Jadavpur
• Santoshpur
• Behala
• Ballygunge
• EM Bypass

6. Hospital Attachments

Practices at Peerless Hospital and Pathkind Labs, offering easy accessibility for patients across South Kolkata.

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Importance of Early Treatment

Gallbladder cancer spreads quickly because of its close proximity to the liver. Early detection means:

• Higher survival rates
• Smaller surgeries
• Better recovery
• Lower complications

Waiting too long can allow cancer to spread to liver, lymph nodes, bile duct, or even lungs.

If you have persistent symptoms or long-standing gallstones, consult a gallbladder cancer specialist without delay.

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When to Visit a Gallbladder Cancer Doctor?

Seek immediate consultation if you experience:

• Chronic upper abdominal pain
• Gallstone symptoms worsening over time
• Recurrent vomiting
• Yellowish skin/eyes
• Sudden weight loss

You should also get screened if you have a porcelain gallbladder, which is a high-risk condition.

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Consult the Top Female Gallbladder Cancer Doctor in South Kolkata

If you’re looking for:

✔ Best gallbladder cancer doctor in Kolkata
✔ Top female surgical oncologist in South Kolkata
✔ Gallbladder cancer specialist near me
✔ GI cancer doctor in Kolkata

—then Dr. Pallabika Mandal is one of the most trusted names for comprehensive gallbladder cancer care.