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Bile Duct Cancer Treatment in Mumbai

Colon Cancer

Welcome to Bile Duct Cancer Services page. Dr Praveen Kammar understands that being diagnosed with bile duct cancer can be a daunting experience, filled with uncertainty and concern. Our goal is to provide you with comprehensive care and support in this challenging time.

Here, we offer a wide range of services designed to help you navigate through your journey, from innovative treatment options to compassionate patient support. Our team of highly skilled Oncologists and specialists are dedicated to providing the highest level of care, tailored to your unique needs.

What is Bile Duct Cancer?

Bile duct cancer, known as cholangiocarcinoma, is an uncommon and aggressive cancer type that develops within the bile ducts. These are thin tubes that carry bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver, to the small intestine.

Cholangiocarcinoma can occur at any point along the bile ducts, and the location of the cancer includes intrahepatic (within the liver), perihilar or hilar (at the junction of the right and left hepatic ducts), or distal (beyond the junction of the cystic duct).

Types of Bile Duct Cancer

Bile duct cancer, also known as cholangiocarcinoma, is a rare but serious type of cancer that can be classified into three main types based on its location in the bile ducts:

1. Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: This type starts in the bile ducts within the liver and accounts for about 10% of bile duct cancers.

2. Perihilar (Hilar) Cholangiocarcinoma:  Also known as Klatskin tumors, these cancers begin at the hilum, where the left and right main hepatic ducts have joined and are just leaving the liver. This is the most common type of bile duct cancer.

3. Distal Cholangiocarcinoma: This cancer begins in the portion of the bile duct that runs through the pancreas. 

Each type of bile duct cancer has its unique challenges and requires different treatment approaches.

Signs and Symptoms

Bile duct cancer, or cholangiocarcinoma, often doesn’t show any symptoms until it has advanced. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:

  1. Jaundice
  2. Itching
  3. Abdominal Pain
  4. Fever
  5. Unintentional Weight Loss and Loss of Appetite
  6. Pale or Greasy Stools and Dark Urine
  7. Fatigue

Remember, these symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than bile duct cancer. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen, it’s important to see an oncologist for an evaluation.

Should you detect any of the symptoms,

Schedule an immediate appointment with Mumbai’s Cholangiocarcinoma Surgeon, Dr. Praveen Kammar, for the swiftest evaluation and subsequent treatment.

Diagnosis of Bile Duct Cancer

Diagnosing bile duct cancer, or cholangiocarcinoma, involves several steps to confirm the presence of cancer cells and determine their location and extent. Here are the main procedures used in the diagnosis:

1. Medical History and Physical Exam: The first step is a thorough review of your medical history and a physical exam to identify any risk factors or symptoms that might suggest bile duct cancer.

2. Blood Tests: These can check for abnormal levels of bilirubin and liver enzymes, which could indicate a problem with the bile ducts. They can also measure tumor markers that may suggest bile duct cancer. Ca19-9 is an important tumor marker for biliary duct cancers.

3. Imaging Tests: Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, and endoscopic ultrasound can provide detailed images of the bile ducts, helping to identify any abnormalities or tumors.

4. Biopsy: In this procedure, a small sample of tissue is removed from the suspected area and examined under a microscope to look for cancer cells.  For operable bile duct cancers, a biopsy diagnosis is often not necessary. We recommend biopsy only when there is a possibility of a noncancerous condition. E.g. bile duct narrowing due to stone which may mimic a bile duct cancer.

5. Laparoscopy: In some cases, a small surgical procedure called laparoscopy might be used to assess the spread of the disease.

6. Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): This procedure uses an endoscope to inject a dye into the bile ducts, which can then be viewed on an X-ray.This helps in assessing the extent of spread of cancer in the biliary tree. ERCP is also used to put stents to relieve blocked bile flow due to biliary cancers. 

7. PTBD- Percutaneous TransHepatic Biliary Drainage – The bile duct cancers that involve ducts closer to the liver may not be amenable for assessment or intervention from endoscopic route. In such a case, the bile ducts inside the liver ( above the level of tumor )are accessed by going through the liver tissue using needles. PTBD also serves the same purpose as ERCP i.e. obtaining specimens for diagnosis, imaging the biliary tree,  relieving the obstruction using stents.

Each diagnostic test provides valuable information that helps physicians develop the most effective treatment plan. If you’re experiencing symptoms that may suggest bile duct cancer, it’s crucial to consult with an oncologist for a proper diagnosis.

Treatments for Bile Duct Cancer in Mumbai

Bile duct cancer, or cholangiocarcinoma, can be classified into three main types based on its location in the bile ducts: Intrahepatic, Perihilar (Hilar), and Distal Cholangiocarcinoma. Each type requires a different treatment approach.

Treatment options for bile duct cancer vary depending on the location of the cancer, its stage, and the patient’s overall health. Here are the main treatment options:

  • Surgery: This is often the first line of treatment when the cancer is localized and can be removed completely. The type of surgery depends on the location of the cancer within the bile ducts.
  • Radiation Therapy: This uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It can be used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells, or for inoperable cancers to help control symptoms.
  • Chemotherapy: This uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It can be used before surgery to shrink tumors, after surgery to kill remaining cells, or as the main treatment for inoperable cancers.
  • Liver Transplant: In some cases where the cancer is located at the hilum and hasn’t spread outside the liver, a liver transplant may be considered.
  • Targeted Therapy: This uses drugs that specifically target the changes in cancer cells that help them grow and divide.
  • Immunotherapy: This helps the immune system fight cancer.
  • Clinical Trials: These test new treatments and may be an option for some patients.
  • Ablation: For bile duct cancers within the liver, ablation using extreme heat (radiofrequency ablation) or cold (cryotherapy) may help control the cancer.
  • Palliative Therapy: For advanced cancers, the focus may be on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life.

    Remember, each patient’s situation is unique, and treatment decisions are made on an individual basis. Always consult with an oncologist for the best treatment options.

    Looking For Bile Duct Cancer Treatment?

    Time is of the essence. Get the fastest assessment and potential treatment plan from Dr. Praveen Kammar, the top surgical oncologist in Mumbai. Contact him today

    Conclusion

    Our Bile Duct Cancer Services aim to provide a comprehensive and personalized approach to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of bile duct cancer.

    We are committed to delivering exceptional care that incorporates the latest advancements in medical technology and therapeutics. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way, from diagnosis through treatment and beyond.

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