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Bile Duct Cancer
Understanding Your Diagnosis Deciding on Treatment Managing Side Effects Cancer FAQs Advanced Reading
The majority of bile duct cancers develop in the part of the ducts that are outside the liver and are sometimes referred to as extrahepatic tumors.
Overview
The most common symptoms of bile duct cancer is jaundice—a yellowing of the skin and eyes—and abdominal pain. These can be symptoms of other medical conditions, as well.
Understanding Your Diagnosis
To tell if you have cancer, your doctor will take a biopsy of the tumor in your bile duct. A pathologist will use a microscope to examine the sample, looking for cancer cells.
Deciding on Treatment
Your treatment for bile duct cancer depends on the size and location of the tumor and the extent of the disease. You may need surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or the placement of a stent to drain any buildup of bile.
Managing Side Effects
Side effects of treatment depend on the specific treatment given and can vary from patient to patient. Your cancer specialist will work with you to keep any side effects at a minimum.
Advanced Reading
Learn more about bile duct cancer from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Physician Data Query (PDQ®) for patients. It includes information about prevention, screening, and treatment.
