[Primary carcinoma of the gallbladder]

A series of 4 patients with gallbladder cancer encountered in 1977-86 is presented. Carcinoma accounted for 2.5% of all biliary surgery with a higher incidence among female (F = 22, M = 12). Most of the tumours had reached an advanced by the time they reached the operating theatre. Given the difficulty in diagnosing tumours at an early stage, prophylactic cholecystectomy is highly recommended in patients with gallstones whether they are symptomatic or not.