Objective To study the association and the effect of the expression of p16 and p53 protein on the occurence and development of gallbladder carcinoma. Methods The expression of p16 and p53 protein were detected in 40 cases of gallbladder carcinoma with immunohistochemical method. Results The expressions of p16 and p53 protein were closely correlated to the tumor pathological grade, lymph mode metastasis and prognosis. p16 protein was correlated to the Nevin classifications. Conclusion The results indicate that the low expression rate of p16 protein occurred in the advanced stage of gallbladder carcinoma. The expression of p16 and p53 protein are helpful in judging the malignant degree and prognosis of primary gallbladder cancer.