“Rapid progression of gallbladder cancer from stage I to stage IV in 4-months: A case highlighting the critical need for timely intervention”

Gallbladder cancer is the most common biliary tract malignancy, primarily affects older women and strongly associated with cholelithiasis. Early detection is critical, as prognosis worsens significantly with disease progression. This case involves a 68-year-old male, who presented with abdominal pain, jaundice, and cachexia. Imaging initially revealed a stage I gallbladder cancer with associated cholelithiasis. Despite recommendations for prompt surgical, histopathological and oncological referral, patient’s socioeconomic barriers delayed intervention. Within 4 months, the cancer progressed to stage IV, with direct invasion of the liver and duodenum, vascular thrombosis, and metastatic lymphadenopathy, ultimately leading to the patient's death. This case highlights the devastating impact of delayed care for gallbladder cancer, underscoring the need for improved access to early diagnosis, timely referrals, strengthening specialized medical services at regional level and coordinated multidisciplinary management of aggressive malignancies.