Klatskin Tumor

A Klatskin tumor is a type of bile duct cancer that occurs at the junction of the right and left hepatic bile ducts, where they merge to form the common hepatic duct. This location is also known as the hepatic duct junction.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of Klatskin tumors is not well understood, but several risk factors have been identified, including:

• Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), a chronic liver disease that causes scarring and narrowing of the bile ducts
• Chronic biliary tract infections or inflammation
• Exposure to certain chemicals, such as thorotrast, a radioactive substance used in medical imaging
• Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), a genetic disorder that increases the risk of colon cancer and other cancers

Symptoms

The symptoms of Klatskin tumors can vary, but common signs include:

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Abdominal pain or discomfort, particularly in the upper right quadrant
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dark urine and pale stools

Diagnosis

Diagnosing a Klatskin tumor typically involves a combination of imaging tests, including:

• Computed tomography (CT) scans
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP)
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
• Positron emission tomography (PET) scans

Treatment Options

Treatment for Klatskin tumors depends on the stage and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. Common treatment options include:

• Surgical resection, which involves removing the tumor and affected bile ducts
• Chemotherapy, which uses medications to kill cancer cells
• Radiation therapy, which uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells
• Biliary stenting or drainage, which involves placing a tube to relieve blockages in the bile ducts
• Liver transplantation, which may be considered for patients with early-stage tumors and underlying liver disease

Prognosis

The prognosis for Klatskin tumor patients varies depending on the stage of the cancer at diagnosis. Generally, the 5-year survival rate is around 10-20% for patients with advanced disease, while those with early-stage tumors may have a better outlook.