Gall stones size, number, biochemical analysis and lipidogram− an association with gall bladder cancer: a study of 200 cases

Purpose: Objective of the study was to find out if there is any relation of number, size and type of gall stones and patient’s lipid profile with the occurrence of gall bladder carcinoma (GBC) as presence of gall stones is considered to be the most important risk factor for gall bladder cancer. Methods: 200 specimens of post-cholecystectomy gallbladder were studied. The number, size and type of stones and lipid profile were compared in all these cases. Gross as well as histopathological examination of gall bladders specimens was done. Results: 185 (92.5%) gall bladders were associated with gall stones. On histopathological examination, malignancy was found in 6 cases (3%) only and rest 194 cases (97%) revealed inflammatory/ non-neoplastic pathology. A statistically significant difference was observed in the number of stones in gall bladders with malignancy than those with benign lesions (P < 0.001). Similarly, a statistically significant difference was seen in terms of stone size between gallbladder cancer (GBC) cases and those with benign pathology (P < 0.005). Benign lesions of gall bladders were mostly associated with mixed type of stones whereas malignant cases were associated with pure cholesterol type of stones. No significant relation was found between the patient’s lipid profile and occurrence of gallbladder carcinoma (GBC) (p > 0.005). Conclusion: Thus we concluded that as the number, size and cholesterol gall stone increase the risk of gall bladder cancer also increases without any relation with lipid profile.