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Bile Duct Cancer
Next to gallstones, cancer is the most common cause of bile duct obstruction. 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. Most bile duct cancers are adenocarcinomas, which means they develop from the glandular cells of the bile duct.
Although each individual may experience symptoms differently, common symptoms of bile duct cancer include:
- Jaundice – yellowing of the skin and eyes
- Abdominal pain
- Poor appetite
- Weight loss
- Itching
- Pale stools
- Dark urine
- Fever
Always consult your physician for a diagnosis, as symptoms of bile duct cancer may resemble other medical conditions or problems.
Treatment of Bile Duct Cancer
The following treatments may be used to treat bile duct cancer:
- Surgery
- Stent placement
- External radiation
- Chemotherapy
Inova Fairfax Hospital Advanced Endoscopy Center is the first of its kind in Northern Virginia. Our physicians utilize some of the most innovative endoscopic technologies available to successfully treat both cancerous and non-cancerous diseases of the digestive tract – conditions that once required traditional surgery.
The Inova Interventional Oncology Program draws together a multidisciplinary team of specialists to deliver the best possible outcomes to adults and children with tumors of the liver, bile duct and pancreas. This program is unique to Northern Virginia and offers an unsurpassed level of expertise and convenience.