Dr. Harshal Rajekar, a distinguished specialist in Hepato Pancreatic Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplant, provides expert care for patients with bile duct cancer in Pune. Bile duct cancer, or cholangiocarcinoma, is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that originates in the bile ducts, which are small tubes that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine.
What is Bile Duct Cancer?
Bile duct cancer occurs when cancer develops in the bile ducts causing partial or complete blockage to the flow of bile. The bile ducts carry bile from the liver to the intestine. Bile is a fluid produced by the liver to aid in fat digestion. This cancer can develop in different parts of the bile ducts:
- Intrahepatic: Occurs in the bile ducts inside the liver.
- Hilar: Develops at the hilum, where the bile ducts exit the liver.
- Distal: Found in the bile ducts outside the liver.
Symptoms of Bile Duct Cancer:
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes, caused by the buildup of bilirubin.
- Abdominal Pain: Typically in the upper right section of the abdomen.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Sudden loss of weight and appetite.
- Itchy Skin: Persistent itching due to bile deposition.
- Dark Urine and Pale Stools: Changes in urine and stool color due to bile obstruction.
- Fever: Recurring episodes of fever especially with chills or rigors.
Causes and Risk Factors:
The exact cause of bile duct cancer is not fully understood, but several factors may increase the risk:
Chronic Liver Disease: Conditions like cirrhosis and hepatitis B or C.
Bile Duct Inflammation: Chronic inflammation, such as primary sclerosing cholangitis.
Bile Duct Abnormalities: Congenital conditions like choledochal cysts.
Parasitic Infections: Liver fluke infections in endemic areas.
Age and Gender: More common in older adults and slightly more prevalent in men.
When to Visit the Doctor:
If you experience symptoms indicative of bile duct cancer, it is critical to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential for effective treatment.
Visit Dr. Harshal Rajekar if you notice:
- Persistent jaundice.
- Severe or ongoing abdominal pain.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Any unusual changes in urine or stool color.
- Persistent itching without an apparent cause.
Diagnosis and Treatment: Dr. Harshal Rajekar utilizes a range of diagnostic tools and treatment options to manage bile duct cancer:
- Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, and ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) to visualize the bile ducts and detect abnormalities.
- Biopsy: Tissue samples to confirm the diagnosis.
- Blood Tests: To assess liver function and detect tumor markers.
Treatment Options:
- Surgery: The primary treatment for localized bile duct cancer, involving the removal of the tumor and sometimes part of the liver.
- Liver Transplant: Considered for selected patients, particularly when the cancer is confined to the bile ducts but not resectable.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors. However it is offered to only select patients.
- Chemotherapy: Medications to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells.
- Palliative Care: Focused on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life, especially in advanced stages.
Prevention and Management:
- Regular Check-ups: Early detection through regular medical check-ups, especially for those with risk factors.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and managing chronic liver conditions.
Dr. Harshal Rajekar is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients with bile duct cancer. With advanced diagnostic techniques, personalized treatment plans, and a commitment to improving patient outcomes, Dr. Rajekar offers expert guidance and support. For specialized care and treatment of bile duct cancer, visit Dr. Harshal Rajekar in Pune. Early intervention and appropriate management can significantly enhance the quality of life and treatment success.
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