Risk Factors
Bile Duct Cancer develops in the cells that line the bile ducts, both inside and outside the liver. It mostly affects people over the age of 40 and is more common in men than in women. Bile Duct Cancer often occurs from glandular tissue and is referred to as adenocarcinoma.
Cancer that occurs from the bile duct with in the liver is referred to intra-hepatic, while those that occur outside the liver are called extra-hepatic
The cause of Bile Duct Cancer is unclear, however below may be some contributing factors
- choledochal cysts
- the liver fluke
- Sclerosing Cholangitis
Bile Duct cancer causes lead to Bile Duct obstruction, causing unwanted elements to flow into the bloodstream or tissues, which can lead to yellow pigmentation, also known as jaundice. Symptoms may include urine discoloration (dark urine), pale feces, skin irritation, abdominal pain, lack of appetite, fever, and unexplained weight loss.
