Bile Duct Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment – Agrawal Gastrocare Center Indore

Bile Duct Cancer

Bile duct cancer, also known as cholangiocarcinoma, is a type of cancer that affects the bile ducts in the liver. The bile ducts are small tubes that carry bile from the liver to the small intestine.

When cancer develops in these ducts, it can cause blockages and other complications. The exact cause of bile duct cancer is unknown, but factors such as chronic inflammation, bile duct abnormalities, and liver disease can increase the risk of developing the disease. Symptoms of bile duct cancer include jaundice, abdominal pain, weight loss, and fatigue.

Bile Duct Cancer Diagnosis

• Bile duct cancer, also known as cholangiocarcinoma, can be diagnosed using a variety of tests. These tests may include imaging studies such as CT scans, MRI scans, or ultrasounds, which can help detect any tumors or blockages in the bile ducts.
• Blood tests may also be done to check if they can indicate the presence of cancer.
• In some cases, a tissue sample may need to be taken for further analysis, which can be done through a biopsy.
• Once a diagnosis has been made, cancer will be staged to determine the extent of the disease and help guide treatment options.

Bile Duct Cancer Treatment

The treatment for bile duct cancer depends on the stage of cancer and other factors.

• Surgery is often the preferred option for early-stage cancer, where the tumor can be completely removed.
• In more advanced cases, chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be used to shrink the tumor before surgery or to help relieve symptoms in cases where surgery is not possible.
• For those with inoperable tumors, palliative care may be recommended to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. In some cases, clinical trials may be available for patients to try new and innovative treatments.
• A multidisciplinary approach is often used to provide the best possible outcome for each individual patient.

Dr. Amit Agarwal
Director & Gastroenterologist Consultant
Agarwal Gastrocare Center Indore