Bile Duct Cancer

Cancers in the biliary system, also known as Cholangiocarcinoma, can occur at any site along the biliary tree. It is a complex system of ducts, organs, and other structures that function to produce, store, and secrete bile. Typically, these biliary cancer tumors grow slowly and metastases to local lymph nodes. As they advance, they grow into the peritoneal cavity, lung, and liver.

It is referred to in three different ways based on where cancer occurs:

  • Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma occurs within the liver
  • Hilar cholangiocarcinoma occurs just outside the liver in the bile ducts
  • Distal cholangiocarcinoma occurs close to the small intestine
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Treatment
Causes

Biliary cancers are a consequence of other diseases such as:

  • Primary sclerosing cholangitis
  • Chronic liver disease
  • Congenital bile duct problems
  • Ulcerative colitis
  • Caroli’s disease
  • Liver parasites
  • Smoking tobacco
  • Old age
Symptoms
  • Jaundice - yellowing of skin and eyes
  • Severe itchiness on the skin
  • Congenital bile duct problems
  • Fatigue
  • Abdominal pain
  • Unexpected weight loss
Diagnosis

Blood tests to check liver functionality by studying its enzymes and level of cancer antigen (CA) 19-9 in your blood.

An Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to visually examine the bile ducts using an endoscope.

CT scans and MRIs combined with magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) to produce 3D images of the bile ducts.

A biopsy may be performed to remove a small part of the affected organ to check for cancer cells.

Treatment

Cholangiocarcinoma is one of the most difficult types of cancer to treat as it is a complex network of different parts. Our team of oncologists and gastroenterologists in Pune work together to figure out the right course of treatment for each individual patient. These treatments mostly include biliary drainage, chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, radiation therapy, liver transplant, and surgically removing the cancerous tumors. You’ll be thoroughly guided through all the steps to take towards your holistic recovery and rehabilitation.