Biliary tract cancers, also known as biliary tract neoplasms, are a group of malignant tumors that originate in the bile duct system of the liver and gallbladder. The biliary tract consists of several interconnected organs and ducts involved in the production, storage, and transport of bile, which aids in the digestion and absorption of fats.
These cancers can develop in any part of the biliary tract, including the intrahepatic ducts, extrahepatic ducts (common bile duct), and gallbladder. The most common type of biliary tract cancer is adenocarcinoma, which arises from the glandular cells that line the inner walls of the bile ducts and gallbladder.
Biliary tract cancers are often diagnosed at an advanced stage, as they tend to be asymptomatic in the early stages. Symptoms may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. Risk factors for developing biliary tract cancers include chronic inflammation of the bile ducts (such as in cases of primary sclerosing cholangitis), gallstones, congenital abnormalities of the ducts, occupational exposures, and certain genetic conditions.
Treatment options for biliary tract cancers depend on various factors, including the location and stage of the cancer. They may involve surgical resection of the tumor, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and, in some cases, liver transplantation. Prognosis can vary greatly depending on the stage of cancer at diagnosis, with early detection leading to better outcomes. However, overall, biliary tract cancers have a relatively poor prognosis, as they often present with advanced disease and are difficult to treat.
