Since 2020, aggregated from related topics
Biliary tract cancers, also known as cholangiocarcinomas, are rare but aggressive malignancies that arise in the bile ducts. These cancers can occur anywhere along the biliary tree, including the intrahepatic ducts, the perihilar region, and the distal extrahepatic bile ducts. Biliary tract cancers are often diagnosed at a late stage when they are already advanced and difficult to treat. Common risk factors for these cancers include chronic inflammation of the bile ducts, certain liver diseases, and exposure to certain chemicals or toxins. Treatment for biliary tract cancers usually involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The prognosis for patients with biliary tract cancers is generally poor, with a low overall survival rate. Research in this area focuses on improving early detection methods, developing more effective treatments, and understanding the genetic and molecular factors that contribute to the development of these cancers.