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Current Hepatology Reports
Published in: Current Hepatology Reports 4/2019

01-12-2019 | Liver Transplantation | Hepatic Cancer (N Parikh, Section Editor)

Screening Indications and Treatments for Cholangiocarcinoma

Authors: Joseph C. Ahn, Ju Dong Yang

Published in: Current Hepatology Reports | Issue 4/2019

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

The goal of this review paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) including its classification, epidemiology, risk factors, surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment.

Recent Findings

Guidelines recommend CCA surveillance in PSC patients with MRI/MRCP or ultrasound and CA 19-9 every 6–12 months. Fluorescience in situ hybridization and next-generation sequencing improve the poor sensitivity of biliary brushings. Surgical resection with negative margins gives the best chance of survival, and liver transplantation is an option for patients with very early intrahepatic CCA and perihilar CCA.

Summary

CCA is a deadly epithelial malignancy of the biliary-ductal system and is the second most common primary liver cancer. Surveillance should be offered to all patients with PSC. CCA carries poor prognosis, especially if resection or liver transplantion is not feasible. Novel biomarkers and therapeutic options such as molecularly targeted therapy and immunotherapy hold promise to improve the detection and outcome of CCA patients.
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Metadata
Title
Screening Indications and Treatments for Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors
Joseph C. Ahn
Ju Dong Yang
Publication date
01-12-2019

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