obsolete non-resectable cholangiocellular carcinoma

Cholangiocarcinoma: A Rare and Aggressive Cancer

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a rare and aggressive cancer that arises from the bile ducts, which are responsible for transporting bile from the liver to the small intestine. CCA is often referred to as "bile duct cancer" or "cholangiocellular carcinoma." It is a heterogenous group of tumors that can be classified based on their anatomic location into intrahepatic CCA (iCCA), perihilar CCA (pCCA), and distal CCA (dCCA) [10].

Characteristics and Prognosis

CCA is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, which makes it challenging to treat. The prognosis for patients with CCA is generally poor due to its late presentation and relative resistance to current chemotherapy and radiotherapy regimens [2]. According to some studies, the overall survival rate for patients with CCA is less than 5 years [7].

Treatment Options

The treatment options for CCA are limited, and the choice of therapy depends on various factors such as the tumor location, size, and stage. Surgical resection is considered the only potentially curative option for CCA, but it is often not possible due to the tumor's location or advanced stage [5]. In some cases, palliative care may be necessary to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Current Research

Researchers are exploring new treatment options for CCA, including targeted therapies and immunotherapies. However, more studies are needed to understand the biology of this disease and develop effective treatments [3].

References:

[1] P Neuhaus · 1999 - To evaluate different strategies for extended resections of hilar cholangiocarcinomas on radicality and survival. [2

Based on the provided context, here are the signs and symptoms associated with obsolete non-resectable cholangiocellular carcinoma:

• Jaundice, which is a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes [1]
• Cholangitis, an inflammation of the bile ducts [2]
• Vomiting and nausea [3][6]
• Inappetence or loss of appetite [3][6]
• Upper abdominal pain, often right-sided [5][6]
• Palpable mass in the right upper abdomen (Courvoisier's sign) [5][6]

It is worth noting that these symptoms are often associated with advanced stages of cholangiocarcinoma and may not be present in all cases. Additionally, some of these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so a definitive diagnosis would require further medical evaluation.

References: [1] Context result 2 [2] Context result 3 [5] Context result 5 [6] Context result 6

Based on the provided context, it appears that there are several diagnostic tests used to diagnose and stage non-resectable cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Here's a summary of the relevant information:

• Imaging studies: Ultrasonography or computed tomography (CT) scans are often performed initially to evaluate the bile ducts and surrounding tissues. [4][5]
• Cholangiography: This involves imaging the bile ducts using techniques such as magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), which is considered a modality of choice in diagnosing CCA due to its high sensitivity and specificity. [7][8]
• Serologic tests: Tumor markers like CA 19-9 can be measured to identify patients with non-resectable CCA, although their sensitivity and specificity may vary depending on the cut-off value used. [11]

It's worth noting that the diagnostic approach for non-resectable CCA often involves a combination of these imaging studies and serologic tests to confirm the diagnosis and stage the disease.

References:

• [4] Ultrasonography or CT scans are performed initially to evaluate the bile ducts and surrounding tissues.
• [7] MRCP is considered a modality of choice in diagnosing CCA due to its high sensitivity and specificity.
• [8] The combination of MRCP and CT is favored over direct cholangiography for diagnosing CCA.
• [11] CA 19-9 can be measured to identify patients with non-resectable CCA, although its sensitivity and specificity may vary depending on the cut-off value used.