Rare pathological types of gallbladder cancer: Cases report

RATIONALE: Gallbladder cancer is one of the most aggressive malignancies in the biliary system, and there is currently no internationally recognized standardized treatment protocol. Reports on the management of rare pathological types of gallbladder cancer are particularly limited. We present 2 cases of gallbladder cancer with rare pathological subtypes and their diagnostic and therapeutic processes, aiming to further enhance clinicians' understanding of these uncommon entities. PATIENT CONCERNS: This report describes 2 cases of gallbladder cancer, both presenting with abdominal discomfort, raising concerns about the nature of the lesion and effective treatment strategies. DIAGNOSES: Postoperative pathology confirmed one case as gallbladder sarcomatoid carcinoma and the other as gallbladder carcinosarcoma, both of which are clinically rare types. INTERVENTIONS: Both patients underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy at our institution, with subsequent pathological and immunohistochemical examination. OUTCOMES: As of the end of follow-up (November 30, 2025), both patients recovered well postoperatively. LESSONS: Rare types of gallbladder cancer lack specific clinical manifestations, making early screening difficult. Most patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Surgical intervention should be performed as early as possible upon discovery.