PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What type of cancer is most commonly associated with gallstone carcinomas?

1. Sarcoma

2. Adenocarcinoma

3. Basal cell carcinoma

4. Melanoma

The correct answer is: Adenocarcinoma

Gallbladder carcinomas, particularly those associated with gallstones, are most commonly classified as adenocarcinomas. Adenocarcinomas arise from glandular tissue, which is present in the lining of the gallbladder. The relationship between gallstones and gallbladder cancer is well-established; chronic irritation and inflammation caused by gallstones can lead to dysplastic changes in the gallbladder mucosa, progressing eventually to malignancy. In the case of gallbladder carcinomas, the type that develops is typically a type of adenocarcinoma known as "adenocarcinoma of the gallbladder." This is distinct from other types of cancer that are listed in the options. Sarcomas are malignancies that arise from connective tissues and are not associated with the gallbladder. Basal cell carcinoma is a skin cancer that does not relate to gallstones or the gallbladder. Melanoma, which is another form of skin cancer, also has no direct association with gallstones. Thus, adenocarcinoma stands out as the correct answer, directly linking it to the specific context of gallbladder carcinoma stemming from chronic cholecystitis and gallstones.