Surgical outcomes of primary carcinosarcoma of the gallbladder after curative resection: A rare case series

INTRODUCTION: Primary carcinosarcoma is a rare neoplasm of the gallbladder, and is characterized by collision elements of the adenocarcinomatous and sarcomatous components. The tumours comprise both malignant epithelial and mesenchymal elements, and are usually very aggressive, conferring poor prognosis. Adenocarcinomas are the most common neoplasms of the gall bladder, while carcinosarcoma are extremely rare, with a global prevalence rate of less than 1%. The low incidence of carcinosarcoma greatly hinders the understanding of its aetiology. PRESENTATION OF CASE: Here, we report the surgical outcome of 3 rare cases of gallbladder carcinosarcomas, two of which had a IVB stage disease and in one case the staging was II. Following surgery, the survival in the former was less than 1 year, while in the latter, it extended up to 7 years (86 months), and the patient is alive till date. This study aimed to elucidate the surgical outcomes and prognosis after curable resection for carcinosarcomas of the gallbladder. DISCUSSION: The findings suggest that carcinosarcomas are associated with a poor prognosis and short survival, particularly in those with tumours of >5 cm. In the absence of effective adjuvant treatment, surgery remains the mainstay of treatment. CONCLUSION: Complete surgical resection may improve prognosis and extend survival in patients with this rare and aggressive form of gallbladder cancer.