Disease
Cholangiocarcinoma (Bile Duct Cancer)
Overview of Cholangiocarcinoma
Cholangiocarcinoma is also known as bile duct cancer. It is a rare but aggressive cancer that develops in the bile ducts which carry bile from the liver to the small intestine. This cancer is categorised as a biliary tract cancer and can arise at different locations within the bile duct system. The disease often remains undiagnosed until advanced stages due to non specific symptoms.
Types of Cholangiocarcinoma
Cholangiocarcinoma is classified into three main types based on the location of the tumor in the bile duct system:
- Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: Occurs in the smaller bile ducts inside the liver.
- Perihilar Cholangiocarcinoma (Hilar or Klatskin Tumor): Develops at the junction where the right and left bile ducts exit the liver.
- Distal Cholangiocarcinoma: Found in the bile ducts closer to the small intestine.
Symptoms of Cholangiocarcinoma
Symptoms of biliary tract cancer often appear in later stages such as:
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
- Abdominal pain (especially in the upper right side)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Itchy skin
- Fatigue and weakness
- Dark urine and pale stools
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
Causes of Cholangiocarcinoma
The exact cause of cholangiocarcinoma is unknown but some factors may contribute to its development:
- Chronic bile duct inflammation
- Liver diseases such as primary sclerosing cholangitis
- Parasitic infections in the bile ducts
- Genetic mutations leading to malignant tumors in the bile duct
- Exposure to toxins and carcinogens
- History of gallstones or bile duct stones
Complications in Cholangiocarcinoma
If left untreated, bile duct cancer can lead to:
- Liver failure
- Severe infections due to bile duct obstruction
- Metastasis (spread of cancer)
- Biliary sepsis
- Digestive problems due to bile flow obstruction
Risk Factors of Cholangiocarcinoma
Several factors increase the risk of developing cholangiocarcinoma:
- Chronic bile duct inflammation (e.g., primary sclerosing cholangitis)
- Liver cirrhosis
- Infection with liver flukes (common in certain regions)
- Diabetes and obesity
- Smoking and alcohol abuse
- Exposure to chemical toxins
- Congenital bile duct defects (e.g., Caroli disease)
Prevention of Cholangiocarcinoma
While not all cases can be prevented, these steps can lower the risk:
- Avoid chronic liver diseases by managing conditions like hepatitis and cirrhosis.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and exercise.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and smoking.
- Reduce exposure to toxins linked to liver and bile duct diseases.
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis B which can reduce liver cancer risk.
Diagnosis of Cholangiocarcinoma
To detect biliary tract cancer, doctors use various diagnostic tests:
- Blood tests: (Liver function tests, tumor markers like CA 19-9)
- Imaging tests: (MRI, CT scan, ERCP and PET scan)
- Biopsy: to confirm malignancy
- Cholangiography: to examine bile duct structure
Treatments of Cholangiocarcinoma
Treatment depends on cancer stage and location, such as:
- Surgery: Removal of the tumor if detected early.
- Liver Transplant: For certain cases of localized bile duct cholangiocarcinoma.
- Radiation Therapy: Used to shrink tumors or relieve symptoms.
- Chemotherapy: Often combined with other treatments to slow disease progression.
- Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific cancer cell mutations.
- Palliative Care: Helps manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Prognosis of Cholangiocarcinoma
The cholangiocarcinoma prognosis depends on early detection and treatment.
- Localised cancer (early stage): Higher survival rate with successful surgery.
- Advanced stages: Lower survival rates due to metastasis.
- 5-year survival rate: Generally low but improving with advanced treatments.
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- Expert Oncology Consultations: Get guidance from top cancer specialists.
- Personalised Treatment Plans: Tailored care based on your specific condition.
- Advanced Diagnostic Support: Quick access to cutting-edge tests and imaging.
- Latest Treatment Options: Surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and more.
- International Patient Assistance: Seamless medical travel and hospital coordination.
- 24/7 Patient Support: Always here to answer your questions and concerns.
- Post-Treatment Care: Recovery guidance for better healing and long term well being.
- Compassionate Care: We prioritise your comfort, dignity and emotional well being.
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor
- What type of cholangiocarcinoma do I have?
- What are my treatment options?
- How advanced is my cancer?
- What is my expected prognosis?
- Can the cancer be completely removed with surgery?
- Are there clinical trials available for my condition?
- How can I manage symptoms like jaundice and pain?
- What lifestyle changes should I make to improve my health?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- Clear and detailed explanations about their diagnosis
- Discussion of all available treatment options
- Personalised care plans tailored to their condition
- Compassionate communication and emotional support
- Guidance on symptom management and long term outlook