The first step in diagnosing bile duct cancer is to determine your symptoms. Your healthcare provider will discuss your past medical history with you and ask you about your current symptoms. The goal of cancer care is to relieve your symptoms. In some cases, this will be done with palliative care or supportive care. If your symptoms are severe, you can even consider seeking a second opinion. For more information on cancer care options, click here.
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One of the most common signs of bile duct cancer is abdominal pain. The pain is often felt on the right side, just beneath the ribs. However, abdominal pain is also a symptom of gallstones or other less serious illnesses. Another symptom is itchy skin. In some people, this is a sign of jaundice. The increased amount of bile in the bloodstream will cause the skin to be red and itch.
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In most cases, a doctor will not discover bile duct cancer symptoms until a person becomes jaundiced. It may also be discovered when a blood test shows abnormal liver function. Sometimes, it can be found during a CT scan that was ordered for another reason. Your physician may perform a physical exam, blood tests, imaging tests, or a biopsy. Some doctors also use a combination of these methods.
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Other bile duct cancer symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and jaundice. Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes are common, but you may not have any of these symptoms unless they are accompanied by other symptoms. You should also be aware of any change in your appetite or weight. Jaundice may be the first sign of bile duct cancer, but other causes can lead to these same symptoms.
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People who are exposed to certain chemicals used in the auto industry or wood-finishing industry are at an increased risk for bile duct cancer. People who suffer from chronic liver disease are also at increased risk. However, it is important to understand your risk factors and get checked by your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms. You should also try to maintain a healthy weight and control your diabetes. If you are already suffering from hepatitis, make sure to follow your doctor’s advice to reduce your risk of developing bile duct cancer.
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High levels of bilirubin in your stools are a sign of bile duct cancer. This pigment helps your body digest fat and contributes to the color of your stools. Therefore, high levels of bilirubin in the urine can make your stools dark or even black. You may also experience pain and discomfort in your abdomen. Your doctor will likely suggest surgery as a treatment option.
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Surgery is the most common treatment for biliary tract cancer. Surgery involves removing a portion of the liver or bile duct. Surgical removal is usually the only option for complete cure. Other treatments may include chemotherapy and radiologic therapy. These treatments aim to stop the spread of the cancer and improve your quality of life. When cancer treatment is unsuccessful, patients may have to endure other treatments until their condition improves.
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A CT scan may show a dilated bile duct. Other tests will measure bilirubin levels, the substance responsible for the yellow color of bile. A specialist may perform a stent in the bile duct. After this procedure, bilirubin levels should return to normal. If your symptoms persist, see your healthcare provider for a thorough examination. Only your doctor can determine if you have bile duct cancer or another ailment.
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Treatment for bile duct cancer is based on the location and stage of the tumor. The most aggressive surgery, called cholangiopancreatography, involves the removal of the entire tumor. The surgery requires a large part of the liver and may be the only option for cured patients. But the procedure does carry risks. You should discuss the details of a potential treatment with your doctor as soon as you notice any of the symptoms.
