Klatskin tumor is a malignant tumor that occurs when cells in the gallbladder grow and multiply abnormally. It is more common in adults aged 55 and over and is usually asymptomatic in the early stages, so it is often detected late. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms such as abdominal pain and swelling may occur.
A variety of tests are usually used to diagnose the disease, including CT scans, endoscopic ultrasonography, PET scans, and biopsy. Treatment options may include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the patient’s condition and the stage of the cancer.
What is a Klatskin tumor?
Klatskin tumor is an extrahepatic bile duct cancer that occurs at the junction of the left and right hepatic ducts, which form the common bile duct, which is made up of cystic ducts coming from the gallbladder just outside the liver. This tumor blocks the bile ducts, preventing the flow of bile and can lead to a variety of health problems. Early diagnosis allows the tumor to be detected and treated before it spreads, but when the disease progresses, surgery such as a liver transplant may be necessary.
What causes Klatskin tumor?
There are many risk factors that can cause Klatskin tumors. These include age, smoking, obesity, family history of cancer, and some hereditary diseases. Although these types of cancers are usually detected late, they can cause serious health problems in advanced stages.
What are the symptoms of Klatskin tumor?
A Klatskin tumor is a tumor that occurs in the bile duct and presents with symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and jaundice. This tumor causes symptoms by blocking the flow of bile. Symptoms of a Klatskin tumor may include:
- Pain in the abdominal area
- Fatigue and weakness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Extreme weight loss
- Jaundice and itching on the skin
- Yellowing of the whites of the eyes
How is Klatskin tumor treated?
Treatment of Klatskin tumor varies depending on the patient’s condition and stage. The generally used treatment methods are:
- Surgery for a Klatskin tumor: The cancer can be surgically removed. Intestinal tubes (restenosis) are sometimes placed to help the intestines function normally after surgery.
- Chemotherapy: Drug treatment used to slow the growth of or kill tumor cells. It can be applied after surgery or when surgery is not possible.
- Radiotherapy: Targets tumor cells with high-dose radiation. It is preferred after surgical treatment or when surgery is not possible.
- Immunotherapy: Helps the body fight cancer cells by strengthening the immune system.
Treatment options are determined by an oncologist or surgical specialist, depending on factors such as the patient’s overall health, age, tumor size and spread.