Sclerosing disorders of the biliary tract are chronic diseases that can be divided into primary and secondary sclerosing inflammations.
Primary sclerosing cholangitis: This sclerosing inflammation and damage of the intrahepatic bile ducts usually result from an autoimmune process, where the body's immune cells attack the bile duct cells.
Secondary sclerosing cholangitis: This sclerosing inflammation, narrowing, and damage of the bile ducts typically arise from specific causes such as tumors. Cholangiocarcinoma is a common tumor affecting the extrahepatic bile ducts and is usually of the adenocarcinoma type.
Symptoms:
Symptoms can range from moderate to severe, and the following signs may indicate sclerosing inflammation of the bile ducts, although sometimes the disease may exhibit atypical behavior.
- Right upper abdominal pain
- Jaundice
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weight loss
- Dark urine
- Altered mental state
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
Diagnostic methods:
Diagnostic tests for sclerosing biliary tract diseases include blood tests, such as complete blood count, bilirubin levels, liver and bile enzymes, as well as specific cancer markers and immune-related markers.
- Abdominal ultrasound (US)
- Computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the biliary tract
- Cholangiography
- Liver biopsy or biopsy from the mass
Treatments:
Primary sclerosing cholangitis: So far, there is no definitive treatment that can prevent the progression of these diseases and the need for liver transplantation. Ursodeoxycholic acid has been used for years as a treatment for biliary tract diseases and itching. However, it has not been proven to be effective in improving itching, fatigue, time to liver transplantation, or life expectancy, although it has shown some improvement in sclerosing and liver function tests.
Due to malabsorption issues, it is advisable to supplement calcium and check vitamin D levels. In advanced diseases, liver transplantation is the only effective treatment.
Treatment for cholangiocarcinoma depends on the patient's age, disease spread, underlying conditions, and responsiveness to treatment. Possible treatments may include surgical removal of the growth or part of it, stent insertion into the bile ducts via ERCP, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.
Important Note: The information provided on this website is not intended to establish physician-patient relationships or serve as medical advice. It is not a substitute for consulting with a healthcare professional or provider of any kind. The user of this information assumes all responsibility and risk.