Bile Duct Cancer Symptoms
Bile duct cancer is a rare disease in which malignant cancer cells form in the part of bile duct that is outside the liver.
Bile duct cancer may occur more frequently in patients with a history of primary
sclerosing cholangitis, chronic ulcerative colitis, choledochal cysts, or
infections with the fluke, Clonorchis
sinensis.
Symptoms of Bile Duct Cancer
Jaundice is the most common initial sign of bile duct cancer. Other symptoms
may include:
- Brown, tea- or coffee-colored urine.
- Enlarged gallbladder. Though uncommon, a blocked bile duct can cause bile
to accumulate in your gallbladder, making it larger than normal. Although
your gallbladder is hidden behind other organs in your abdomen, your doctor
may be able to feel this enlargement during a physical exam.
- Intense itching (pruritus). The bile pigment that leads to jaundice can
cause significant itching.
- Loss of appetite and weight.
- White or clay-colored stools.
- Fever.
Keep in mind that all of these symptoms can result from conditions other than
cancer. Your doctor can help determine their exact cause, however when the
cancer is caught early, removing your gallbladder or part of the bile duct may
eliminate all the cancerous cells. In advanced cases, treatment won't cure the
disease but can help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
Bile Duct Cancer Symptoms to B
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