Carcinosarcoma of gallbladder: A world review

BACKGROUND: Gallbladder carcinosarcoma is a rare hepatobiliary tumor comprising of both carcinomatous and sarcomatous components. Due to its rarity, the literature with regards to the topic is scarce and currently lacking, spanning less than 100 cases. AIM: To summarize the current literature on gallbladder carcinosarcoma. METHODS: A literature review was performed on the PubMed database using the keywords “Gallbladder” AND “Carcinosarcoma” from 1970 to 2021. Additionally, similar searches were performed on MEDLINE and Web of Science. RESULTS: Risk factors noted include female gender, gallstones and chronic cholecystitis. In the absence of any diagnostic biochemical testing or tumor markers, imaging modality serves as the key initial impression tool, which can be histologically confirmed only post-resection. While surgery is the only curative option, the use of adjunctive chemotherapy has been considered on top of excision in recent years, with some success. CONCLUSION: While this study has taken steps to bridge the gap in the literature, more cases should be reported to further ascertain the current associations and management potential for gallbladder carcinosarcoma.