Cholangiocarcinoma

Question 1

Define cholangiocarcinoma

Answer 1

Cholangiocarcinomas are cancers arising from the bile duct epithelium

Question 2

Explain the risk factors of cholangiocarcinoma

Answer 2

Over 50's
Biliary disease
UC
PSC
Cirrhosis, ALD
Liver fluke infection
Hep B, C, HIV, typhoid (Carrier), thorium dioxide exposure

Question 3

Summarise the epidemiology of cholangiocarcinoma

Answer 3

Aged 50-70
Slight male predominance
High rates in north east Thailand

Question 4

Identify appropriate investigations for cholangiocarcinoma and interpret the results

Answer 4

Bloods: (serum)
> BR, Alk Phos, GGT, aminotransferase (elevated)
> Prothrombin time (Increased)
> CA 19-9, CEA, CA-125 (Elevated)

Abdominal US (dilations of ducts or mass lesions)

CT/ MRI/ ERCP or MRCP may also be helpful