Cholangiocarcinoma is a type of cancer that affects the bile ducts, which are tubes that carry bile (a digestive juice) from the liver to the small intestine. Cholangiocarcinoma is a very serious form of cancer that can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated in a timely manner.
The prognosis for cholangiocarcinoma depends on the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis, and how far it has spread. In the early stages of the disease, it may be possible to surgically remove the affected area or to use chemotherapy or radiation therapy to reduce the size of the tumor. However, if the cancer has already spread to other parts of the body, it is much more difficult to treat and is likely to be fatal. In addition, the survival rate for people with cholangiocarcinoma is generally low, with only around 20% of people surviving for five years or more after diagnosis.
No matter what stage the cancer is in, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you have any symptoms of cholangiocarcinoma, such as jaundice, abdominal pain, or weight loss. With early diagnosis and treatment, the chances of survival can be greatly improved.