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Cholangiocarcinoma

Diseases and Conditions Cholangiocarcinoma
Overview Types Causes & Risk Factors Symptoms Preventions Treatment
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Overview

Cholangiocarcinoma, commonly known as bile duct cancer, originates in the slender tubes (bile ducts) responsible for transporting bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine. Although it predominantly affects individuals over 50, it can occur at any age.

Types of Cholangiocarcinoma

  1. Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma:
    • Develops within the bile ducts within the liver.
    • Sometimes classified as a type of liver cancer.
  2. Hilar (Perihilar) Cholangiocarcinoma:
    • Occurs just outside the liver, at the confluence of the right and left hepatic ducts.
    • Commonly referred to as Klatskin tumors.
  3. Distal (Extrahepatic) Cholangiocarcinoma:
    • Located in the portion of the bile duct nearest the small intestine.

Causes of Cholangiocarcinoma

Cholangiocarcinoma results from DNA changes in bile duct cells, leading to uncontrolled cell multiplication and tumor formation. However, the exact cause remains unclear.

Risk Factors of Cholangiocarcinoma

Risk factors include:

  • Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: A disease causing bile duct hardening and scarring.
  • Chronic Liver Disease: Scarring due to prolonged liver disease.
  • Bile Duct Abnormalities at Birth: Individuals with choledochal cysts.
  • Liver Fluke Infection: Associated with raw or undercooked fish consumption in Southeast Asia.

Symptoms of Cholangiocarcinoma

The Symptoms of Cholangiocarcinoma are :
1. Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to bilirubin buildup.
2. Intense Itching: Resulting from excess bilirubin in the bloodstream.
3. Loss of Appetite
4. Fatigue
5. Abdominal Pain: Often localized in the upper right quadrant.
6. Unintentional Weight Loss
7. Fever
8. Night Sweats
9. Dark urine

Preventions of Cholangiocarcinoma

  • Hepatitis B Vaccination: Reduces risk.
  • Avoiding Certain Chemicals: Prevents liver damage.
  • Quitting Smoking
  • Managing Chronic Liver Diseases
  • Regular Check-ups: Early detection is crucial.

Diagnosis of Cholangiocarcinoma

  1. Physical Examination: The doctor assesses signs such as jaundice and abdominal tenderness.
  2. Liver Function Tests: Blood tests to evaluate liver function.
  3. Tumor Marker Tests: Detect cancer antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9).
  4. Imaging:
    • CT Scans: Detailed images of the liver and bile ducts.
    • Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): Visualizes the bile ducts.
    • Biopsy: Tissue sample analysis for cancer cells.

Treatment for Cholangiocarcinoma

  1. Surgery:
    • Resection: Removal of the tumor and affected bile ducts.
    • Liver Transplantation: For localized tumors.
  2. Radiation Therapy: Targeted radiation to shrink tumors.
  3. Chemotherapy: Systemic treatment to kill cancer cells.
  4. Palliative Care: To manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

When to seek medical attention ?

  • If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, especially jaundice or unexplained weight loss, seek medical attention promptly.
  • Regular check-ups are essential for early detection, especially if you have risk factors like chronic liver disease or bile duct abnormalities.