What is cholangiocarcinoma, and where is it found in the body?
Written in association with:
Surgeon
Published: 14/09/2022
Edited by: Conor Lynch
We recently had the pleasure of speaking to highly experienced and skilled consultant surgeon, Professor Brian Davidson, who, here in one of our latest articles, pinpoints for us where exactly cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) is found in the body, whilst also outlining the causes and surgical and non-surgical treatment options for the cancer.
Where is cholangiocarcinoma found in the body?
They are normally present in the lower end of the bile duct, with signs and symptoms that are strikingly similar to pancreatic cancer symptoms. The majority of bile duct cancers (cholangiocarcinoma) are found when the bile duct rises from the liver. They can also appear in the outskirts of the liver.
What causes the development of cholangiocarcinoma?
For the majority of patients, the exact cause is difficult to establish. Most patients develop it spontaneously. There are some conditions that can increase your risk of developing cholangiocarcinoma, such as PSC, which is a chronic condition that causes scarring and inflammation of the bile duct.
What are the different types of cholangiocarcinoma?
They are mainly glandular cancers. Sometimes we get different types, but they are usually glandular cancers that develop within the bile duct.
Can it be cured?
Yes, cholangiocarcinoma can indeed be cured. It is a complex cure though due to the positioning of the cancer within the bile duct. As a result, surgery may not be possible in some cases.
Are there non-surgical treatment options?
The best possible treatment option, if possible, is a surgical resection, where parts of the liver are removed. If the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, chemotherapy is an effective option. Several other forms of treatment, such as thermal ablation, and radiotherapy, are also good options. Transplantation may be an effective option for some patients.
Professor Brian Davidson is a highly revered consultant surgeon who specialises in liver cancer and bile duct cancer. Consult with him today via his Top Doctors profile if you are concerned about possibly having the cancer.