Bile Duct Cancer (Cholangiocarcinoma)
November 22, 2024
This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by Laleh Melstrom, M.D., M.S., associate professor of surgery and immuno-oncology, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, City of Hope® Cancer Center Duarte
Bile duct cancer is not common, but it's typically an aggressive cancer that must be treated swiftly. The bile ducts are located near the major blood vessels that feed the liver, making tumor removal by surgery quite challenging. Therefore, it is essential to seek out a specialized cancer center for such complex surgery.
Bile duct cancer is rare, with only about 8,000 diagnoses in the United States each year. However, many experts believe this condition may be underreported since it's so difficult to diagnose.
Bile duct cancer symptoms are similar to many other conditions, which is why this disease is often diagnosed in more advanced stages. When symptoms do occur, they may include dark urine, clay-colored stool, nausea, jaundice and more.
If a bile duct cancer diagnosis is suspected, the care team may perform a physical exam and order tests such as imaging exams, a liver function test, laboratory testing and more.
Following a diagnosis, the care team will work with the patient to develop a bile duct cancer treatment plan. Surgery is the primary treatment for resectable cholangiocarcinoma. Other treatment options may include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and radiation therapy.
City of Hope is home to one of the nation's most extensive clinical trial programs, where patients may access promising new therapies not available elsewhere.
City of Hope patients automatically gain access to an unparalleled array of support services. Our goal is to assist you and your family as you navigate each challenge along your bile duct cancer treatment journey.
Our Bile Duct Cancer Expertise
With our specialized therapy protocols and an extensive program of clinical trials, newly diagnosed or relapsed bile duct cancer patients can find a treatment regimen tailored to their needs and give them the best chance for survival.
Our Program Highlights:
- State-of-the-art diagnostic imaging and mapping tools
- Renowned surgeons with specialized bile duct cancer expertise
- Robotically assisted surgery using the da Vinci system
- Minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures
- Ultraprecise radiation therapy including helical TomoTherapy and brachytherapy
- Chemotherapy and targeted drug therapy
- Pioneering drug research and clinical trials
City of Hope is one of the few facilities designated a comprehensive cancer center by the National Cancer Institute.
Our developments in the areas of breakthrough cancer drugs, bone marrow transplants and CAR T cell therapy are recognized internationally.
Our leadership in research and innovation continually enhances our ability to provide novel and differentiated approaches to cancer care.