Overview of Cholangiocarcinoma

Cholangiocarcinoma is also known as bile duct cancer it is a rare but aggressive cancer that develops in the bile ducts which carry bile from the liver to the small intestine. This cancer is categorised as a biliary tract cancer and can arise at different locations within the bile duct system. The disease often remains undiagnosed until advanced stages due to non specific symptoms.

Types of Cholangiocarcinoma

Cholangiocarcinoma is classified into three main types based on the location of the tumor in the bile duct system:

1. Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: Occurs in the smaller bile ducts inside the liver.

2. Perihilar Cholangiocarcinoma (Hilar or Klatskin Tumor): Develops at the junction where the right and left bile ducts exit the liver.

3. Distal Cholangiocarcinoma: Found in the bile ducts closer to the small intestine.

Symptoms of Cholangiocarcinoma

Symptoms of biliary tract cancer often appear in later stages such as:

Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)

Abdominal pain (especially in the upper right side)

Unexplained weight loss

Itchy skin

Fatigue and weakness

Dark urine and pale stools

Loss of appetite

Fever

Causes of Cholangiocarcinoma

The exact cause of cholangiocarcinoma is unknown but some factors may contribute to its development:

Chronic bile duct inflammation

Liver diseases such as primary sclerosing cholangitis

Parasitic infections in the bile ducts

Genetic mutations leading to malignant tumors in the bile duct

Exposure to toxins and carcinogens

History of gallstones or bile duct stones

Complications in Cholangiocarcinoma

If left untreated, bile duct cancer can lead to:

Liver failure

Severe infections due to bile duct obstruction

Metastasis (spread of cancer)

Biliary sepsis

Digestive problems due to bile flow obstruction

Risk Factors of Cholangiocarcinoma

Several factors increase the risk of developing cholangiocarcinoma:

Chronic bile duct inflammation it is primary sclerosing cholangitis

Liver cirrhosis

Infection with liver flukes it is common in certain regions

Diabetes and obesity

Smoking and alcohol abuse

Exposure to chemical toxins

Congenital bile duct defects for example Caroli disease

Prevention of Cholangiocarcinoma

While not all cases can be prevented, these steps can lower the risk:

Avoid chronic liver diseases by managing conditions like hepatitis and cirrhosis.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and exercise.

Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and smoking.

Reduce exposure to toxins linked to liver and bile duct diseases.

Get vaccinated against hepatitis B which can reduce liver cancer risk.