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Bile Duct Cancer Treatment
In Ghaziabad
Bile duct cancer also known as cholangiocarcinoma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer. It can cause abdominal pain, jaundice, unexplained weight loss, nausea, vomiting, etc. If left untreated bile duct cancer can cause liver failure, sepsis, and biliary obstruction.
For expert diagnosis and treatment of bile duct cancer, consult with the top Oncologists at CK Birla Hospital.
Bile Duct Cancer
What is Bile Duct Cancer?
Bile duct cancer forms in the bile ducts (the tubes that carry bile from the liver to the small intestine). It is an aggressive form of cancer and most people get diagnosed after it’s already spread outside of their bile ducts. Timely and proper treatment is essential to manage symptoms and improve outcomes.
What are the Types of Bile Duct Cancer?
- Intrahepatic Bile Duct Cancer: This type of cancer starts in the bile duct within the liver. It is often mistaken for liver cancer due to its location.
- Perihilar Bile Duct Cancer: It is the most common type of bile duct cancer. It occurs in the hilum (where bile ducts merge near the liver). Perihilar bile duct cancer is also known as Klatskin tumour.
- Distal Bile Duct Cancer: This type of cancer starts in the bile duct outside the liver near the small intestine.
What are the Types of Bile Duct Cancer Treatment Available?
- Liver Transplant: Involves replacement of deceased liver with healthy liver from a donor. A liver transplant is most effective in early-stage perihilar bile duct cancer.
- Surgery: Invasive procedure involving removing the affected organ or part of the affected organ or treating the blocked ducts.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumours.
- Chemotherapy: A drug to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing.
- Targeted Therapy: Targets specific cancer cell mutations and blocks the abnormal proteins that fuel cancer growth.
What is the Average Cost of Various Bile Duct Cancer Treatments?
- Liver Transplant: Costs approximately between ₹30,00,000 to ₹40,00,000
- Surgery: Typically ranges from ₹4,00,000 to ₹7,00,000
- Radiation Therapy: Can cost anywhere from ₹4,00,000 to ₹10,00,000
- Chemotherapy: Is expected to cost between ₹4,00,000 to ₹10,00,000
- Targeted Therapy: The estimated cost is between ₹3,00,000 to ₹7,00,000 per month
These figures are approximate and can vary based on individual circumstances, hospital facilities, and additional services required.
Any Complications Associated with Untreated Bile Duct Cancer?
- Liver Failure: The bile buildup over time damages the liver cells resulting in cirrhosis & liver failure.
- Metastasis: The cancer cells may spread to other organs (lungs, bones, etc)
- Abdominal Pain: Irritation of the surrounding tissue or growth of the tumour can cause severe abdominal pain.
- Bile Duct Blockage: Tumours can affect the flow of bile resulting in jaundice, dark urine, itchy skin, etc.
- Malnutrition: Loss of appetite and malnutrition due to cancer leading to weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, etc.
Meet Our Top GI Oncologist
Preventive Measures Against Bile Duct Cancer
- Quit Smoking: Avoid consuming tobacco as it may increase the risk of developing bile duct cancer.
- Limit Alcohol Intake: Limit the amount of alcoholic beverage consumption to reduce liver damage.
- Manage Body Weight: Obesity is a significant risk factor for developing bile duct cancer.
- Get Vaccinated: Stay vaccinated against hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV.
- Regular Medical Check-Ups: Early detection and management of bile duct cancer.
Diagnosis of Bile Duct Cancer
- CT Scan, MRI: For identifying abnormalities using images of the bile duct.
- Liver Function Test: To check for abnormal levels of albumin, alkaline, etc.
- Abdominal Ultrasound: High-frequency sound waves to create images of the bile duct.
- Biopsy: Test of a tissue sample to identify cancer.
- Endoscopic Test: Test using an endoscope to examine the bile ducts.
Pre-Treatment/Surgery Instructions:
- Follow the doctor’s instructions for medication.
- Avoid smoking and consuming alcohol.
- Do not eat or drink for 6-8 hours before the surgery.
- Arrange for someone to drive you back home.
Post-Treatment/Surgery Instructions:
- The patient will be observed for a few hours post-surgery.
- Change dressing as instructed by the doctor.
- Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor recovery.
- Avoid strenuous activities and follow a balanced diet to aid recovery.
Recovery After Bile Duct Cancer Treatment
Recovery time depends on the type of treatment or surgery performed. Generally, patients can expect:- Initial recovery may take somewhere between 4 weeks to 2 months.
- Full recovery and return to normal activities within 3 months to 1 year.
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FAQs Around Bile Duct Cancer
What is a bile duct?
Bile ducts are tubes that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder.
What is cholangiocarcinoma?
Cholangiocarcinoma of bile duct cancer is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that forms in the bile ducts.
How fast does bile duct cancer spread?
Bile duct cancer is an aggressive form of cancer. The spread of cancer depends on the tumour’s location and stage.
Is bile duct cancer curable?
Yes, bile duct cancer is curable if diagnosed and treated in the early stage.
What causes bile duct cancer?
The exact cause of bile duct cancer is still unknown, however, some factors are known to increase the risk including, age, lifestyle, daily history, etc.