The stage of cholangiocarcinoma, also known as bile duct cancer, is determined by how far the cancer has spread from the bile duct into the surrounding tissue, organs, and lymph nodes. To determine the stage of cholangiocarcinoma, a doctor will take a medical history, conduct a physical examination, and order imaging tests and a biopsy.
Medical History
The doctor will ask questions about the patient’s medical history, such as any prior medical conditions, medications, or surgeries that may be related to the cancer.
Physical Examination
The doctor will also perform a physical exam to check for signs and symptoms of cholangiocarcinoma. This may include checking the abdomen for lumps or enlarged lymph nodes, as well as checking the skin for signs of jaundice.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests, such as CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans, are used to look for tumors and detect the extent of the cancer.
Biopsy
A biopsy is used to take a sample of tissue from the tumor and examine it under a microscope. This helps the doctor determine the type of cancer and whether it has spread.
Once the doctor has gathered all the necessary information, they will use this data to assign the cancer a stage. The stages of cholangiocarcinoma range from 0 to IV, with 0 being the least advanced and IV being the most advanced.