Primary Pure Keratinising Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Rare Malignancy with Aggressive Behaviour

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Gallbladder cancer is uncommon, with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) representing a rare subtype.
• Primary SCC of the gallbladder accounts for approximately 3.3% of all gallbladder malignancies.
• This condition often presents with non-specific symptoms, delaying diagnosis.

Observation:

• A case of a 70-year-old female presenting with dyspepsia and right upper quadrant pain.
• Ultrasonography revealed gallstones and a thickened, irregular gallbladder wall.
• Gross examination showed an exophytic growth involving a significant portion of the gallbladder.

Findings:

• Histopathological analysis confirmed well-differentiated SCC with extensive keratinization.
• The tumor involved the full thickness of the gallbladder wall.
• No glandular component was identified, and metastasis from other primary sites was excluded.

Implications:

• Gallbladder SCC exhibits an infiltrative growth pattern and aggressive behavior.
• Early diagnosis is crucial for improving patient survival rates.
• Further research into the pathogenesis and treatment of gallbladder SCC is warranted.