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Cholangiocarcinoma, also known as bile duct cancer, begins in the bile duct system. It is a rare disease in which malignant cells (cancer cells) begin to form in the bile ducts.
Around 8,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with bile duct cancer each year. Although this cancer can occur in persons of any age, it mostly affects the elderly.
The three forms of bile duct cancer are categorized according to the area where they begin, which can be anywhere in the bile duct system. Where the cancer starts helps doctors describe it and plan treatment.
The three types of bile duct cancer are based on location within or outside the liver.
1. Intrahepatic bile duct cancer: Develops in the liver's smaller bile duct branches.
2. Perihilar bile duct cancer: Forms near the liver, especially at the intersection of the left and right hepatic ducts. They are also known as hilar cancers or Klatskin tumors.
3. Distal bile duct cancer: Forms near the small intestine, further down the bile duct. This malignancy starts outside of the liver, making it an extrahepatic bile duct cancer.
Symptoms of bile duct cancer rarely appear until the disease has progressed considerably, but they can occasionally appear and lead to earlier detection. The symptoms can usually be attributed to a blocked bile duct.
Depending on whether the tumor is in ducts inside the liver (intrahepatic) or outside the liver (extrahepatic), different symptoms may be present.
Common symptoms may include:
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
Itching
Dark urine
Abdominal pain
Light-colored stool
Bloating
Nausea
Determining the best course of treatment partly depends on the severity of the bile duct cancer. The tumor's size and location will determine the treatment plan.
Treatment options for bile duct cancer include:
Surgery may involve the removal of the tumor, and in some cases, can include a liver resection. The precise procedure will depend on the tumor's location and the severity of the disease.
Some patients may need chemotherapy or radiation therapy following surgery to address cancer cells that may remain after the procedure.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays or particles to kill cancer cells. It may be used in certain situations when surgery is not possible or as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Chemotherapy (often known as "chemo") is a form of treatment that uses medications that are typically administered intravenously (IV) or orally. These medications enter the bloodstream and reach many parts of the body, a process called systemic treatment.
Chemotherapy may be used in certain cases, including when cancer has spread beyond the bile duct or as part of a broader treatment approach.
During a liver transplant, the entire liver is removed and replaced with a healthy donated liver. Perihilar bile duct cancer patients may get a liver transplant.
While the patient waits for a liver donation, another treatment is provided if necessary.
The diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma and the severity of its spread is made possible by procedures that allow physicians to closely examine the bile duct and the surrounding areas.
Staging refers to the method used to determine whether abnormal cells have spread to other parts of the body or remain within and around the bile ducts.
These tests can include:
The cholangiocarcinoma specialists at ACTC are dedicated to providing patients with excellent care by recommending successful, tailored treatment plans. At every stage of cancer treatment, our team ensures a patient-centric approach that assists a patient's recovery.
The following are our providers whom you can consult at ACTC:
Hematology/Oncology
Hematology/Oncology
Radiation Oncology
Choosing a care team you can trust is essential in these times. Getting a treatment plan in place is vital.
Our integrated, comprehensive cancer care is delivered by a team of specialists and other cancer experts, all under one roof, and includes everything from cutting-edge cancer treatments to supportive therapies that manage side effects.
Schedule a consultation by calling
352-345-4565
People who drink alcohol heavily are at greater risk of intrahepatic bile duct cancer.
Nearly all bile duct cancers start in the lining (biliary epithelium) of the bile duct.
The extent of bile duct cancer is an important factor in deciding on treatment options. Surgery is the main treatment for bile duct cancers when the tumor can be removed.
Schedule a consultation by calling
352-345-4565
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15211 Cortez Boulevard, Brooksville, Florida 34613