One of the most common diseases of the bile duct is bile duct cancer. This type of cancer ranks fifth among the most common cancers in the digestive system. It is mostly seen in people aged 60 and over and can progress rapidly if no preventive measures are taken.
What are the causes of bile duct cancer?
The most common causes of bile duct cancer include gallbladder inflammation, bile duct cysts, Hepatitis B and C, ulcerative colitis, liver stones, advanced age, obesity, and typhoid carrier status.
What are the symptoms of bile duct cancer?
The first symptom of bile duct cancer is painless jaundice. Itching caused by bilirubin accumulation under the skin is another important symptom. In the advanced stages of the disease, significant weight loss occurs.
How is bile duct cancer diagnosed?
Early diagnosis of bile duct cancer is crucial for treatment. Initially, the liver and bile ducts are examined using ultrasonography. If there is dilation in the bile ducts, cross-sectional imaging is performed with CT (computed tomography) or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). A biopsy or brush sample can be taken via ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography). Clinically, in patients with jaundice, itching, and weight loss, a CA19-9 tumor marker level of 100 U/ml also supports the diagnosis. Diagnostic methods are determined based on the patient’s health status, age, symptoms, and previous test results.
How is bile duct cancer treated?
The treatment of bile duct cancer is based on the surgical removal of the tumor. This requires the resection of the gallbladder and bile ducts.
However, because bile duct cancer is a slowly progressing cancer, by the time it is diagnosed, more than half of patients have lost the chance for surgery. In patients eligible for surgery, the Whipple procedure is performed. For those with advanced disease that cannot be surgically removed, palliative methods such as endoscopic procedures to relieve jaundice and pain, pain management, and percutaneous drainage (radiological intervention) are used.