Bile duct cancer

Overview

Bile duct cancer is cancer that forms in the slender tubes (bile ducts) that carry the digestive fluid bile through your liver. Bile duct cancer is also called cholangiocarcinoma.

Bile duct cancer is a rare form of cancer that occurs mostly in people older than age 50. Bile duct cancer can cause signs and symptoms such as yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), intense itchiness of the skin, and white-colored stools.

Bile duct cancer is an aggressive form of cancer that progresses quickly and is difficult to treat.

Why choose Mayo Clinic for bile duct cancer

• Teamwork. At Mayo Clinic, specialists in gastroenterology and hepatology work with experts in medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgery and transplant to form a multidisciplinary team to treat bile duct cancer. Other professionals are included as needed.
• Experience. Bile duct cancer is an uncommon type of cancer. Mayo Clinic doctors have experience treating many cases of bile duct cancer.
• A full range of treatment options to consider. Mayo Clinic doctors will work with you to review all of your treatment options and choose the treatment that best suits your needs and goals. The range of treatments offered to people with bile duct cancer includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy, photodynamic therapy and many types of surgical procedures, such as minimally invasive surgery, the Whipple procedure and liver transplant.
• Comprehensive cancer center. Mayo Clinic Cancer Center meets strict standards for a National Cancer Institute comprehensive cancer center, which recognizes scientific excellence and a multidisciplinary approach to cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for cancer by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla., and Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., are ranked high performing for cancer by U.S. News & World Report.

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At Mayo Clinic, we assemble a team of specialists who take the time to listen and thoroughly understand your health issues and concerns. We tailor the care you receive to your personal health care needs. You can trust our specialists to collaborate and offer you the best possible outcomes, safety and service.

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