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Cholangiocarcinoma Causes and Risks:
Malignant tumors of the bile ducts are usually slow growing and late to spread (metastasize). However, by the time diagnosis is made, extension into local structures has frequently occurred. The tumor is usually small and can arise anywhere along the liver secretion
(biliary) ducts.
The tumor produces symptoms by blocking the bile ducts. It affects both sexes, and is most prevalent in ages 50 to 70. Chronic nonspecific ulcerative colitis , choledochal (bile duct) cysts , and chronic biliary irritation may lead to increased incidence . The incidence is 5 out of 100,000 people.
Prevention:
There is no known prevention.
Symptoms:
Signs and Tests:
Tests that show tumor or obstruction in the bile duct: Blood tests that reveal abnormal function:
Treatment:
The goal is to treat the cancer and resulting obstruction. Endoscopic therapy or surgery can clear obstructions in the biliary ducts and relieve jaundice . Localized tumors may be removed, which will usually improve the chance of a good outcome.
Radiation therapy may be beneficial. Chemotherapy , however, is rarely effective.
Support Groups:
The stress of illness can often be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. For this condition, see cancer - support group .
Prognosis:
Survival of 2 to 3 years can be achieved with biliary decompression, even without tumor removal. Complete tumor removal allows 30 to 40% of patients to survive for at least 5 years.
Complications:
Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call your health care provider if persistent jaundice or other symptoms of cholangiocarcinoma are present.
This illustration shows the major organs of the digestive system. Their relative sizes and positioning in the body are also demonstrated.
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