Cholangiocarcinoma, or Bile Duct Cancer, Diagnosed and Treated by Doctors at Mercy
Our gastroenterologists are recognized experts for diagnosing and treating biliary diseases, including the primary types of biliary cancer: hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma. Patients turn to the doctors at The Center for Liver and Hepatobiliary Diseases at Mercy in Baltimore for their innovative treatment options.
Cholangiocarcinoma symptoms occur when the tumor blocks the bile duct, prohibiting the bile to freely flow. Bile duct cancer symptoms include:
- Jaundice
- Discolored stools
- Chills
- Fever
- Itching
- Abdominal pain
- Weight loss
- Appetite loss
Patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis, ulcerative colitis, bile duct cysts, or chronic biliary inflammation are at a higher risk to develop cholangiocarcinoma.
A physical examination as well as tests can be performed to detect bile duct tumors. Common tests for cholangiocarcinoma include:
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
- CT scan of the abdomen
- Ultrasound
- Blood tests
- Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP)
- Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram (PTCA)