Bile Duct Cancer: How It Impacts Your Liver And Symptoms To Note

Bile ducts are tiny tubes that connect different organs together. They help carry bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver, to the small intestine, where it helps digest the fat from the foods. Together, the bile ducts and the organs connected to them form the biliary system. Like any other organ or part of the body, the bile ducts are also susceptible to cancerous cells, and in the event of malignant tumour formation, it can dangerously impact liver functions. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Akash Chaudhary, Clinical Director and Senior Consultant Medical Gastroenterology, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, shed light on the same.

What Is Bile Duct Cancer?

“Bile duct cancer, also known as cholangiocarcinoma, is a rare but aggressive type of cancer that occurs in the bile ducts,” said Dr Chaudhary.

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), there are three types of bile duct cancer, depending on their location. These include:

• Intrahepatic bile duct cancers
• Perihilar (also called hilar) bile duct cancers
• Distal bile duct cancers

While the exact cause of cancer is mostly unknown, several risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing this cancer, as per Dr Chaudhary. These include:

• It appears that people in their 50s are more prone to bile duct cancer. Additionally, it appears to occur more frequently in men than in women.
• Individuals with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC), a chronic liver disease characterised by inflammation and scarring of the bile ducts, have an increased risk of developing bile duct cancer.
• Repeated inflammation or irritation of the bile ducts due to biliary stones may elevate the risk.
• In some regions, a parasitic infection called liver fluke can increase the risk of bile duct cancer.
• Chronic biliary infections can contribute to the development of cancer.

How Does It Impact Your Liver?

According to Dr Chaudhary, bile duct cancer directly affects the liver because it arises from the bile ducts, which are an integral part of the liver's functioning.

He said, “As the cancer progresses, it can obstruct the flow of bile, leading to bile buildup in the liver. This can result in liver damage, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and other complications.”

As per the National Cancer Institute (NCI), cancer can form in the bile ducts inside and outside the liver. The one that occurs inside is called intrahepatic bile duct cancer, whereas the one that forms outside is known as extrahepatic bile duct cancer.

Common Symptoms To Watch Out For

The symptoms of bile duct cancer can vary, but some common signs include:

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Abdominal pain, especially on the upper right side
• Unexplained weight loss
• Itchy skin
• Pale-coloured stools
• Dark urine
• Fatigue
• Fever

Diagnosis And Treatment

Diagnosing bile duct cancer typically involves a combination of imaging tests, blood tests, and sometimes a biopsy, said Dr Chaudhary, adding that imaging studies include Computed Tomography (CT) scans and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Additionally, Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and stenting help reduce jaundice, and brushing can help in the diagnosis of malignancy, he added.

In the case of bile duct cancer diagnosis, treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the stage of the cancer, the location of the tumour, and the overall health of the patient, according to the doctor.

Conclusion

While rare, bile duct cancer poses a serious health threat with its potential to develop in the ducts that carry bile from the liver to the small intestine. It can have a profound impact on the liver and disrupt normal liver function, impairing digestion and nutrient absorption. Since the cancer does not present with any noticeable signs in the early stages, it can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, leading to a poor prognosis. Therefore, regular screening is advised, and even the most insignificant abnormalities should be reported immediately.

Reference Link

https://www.onlymyhealth.com/impact-of-bile-duct-cancer-on-liver-and-symptoms-to-note-1705648927