In most cases, advanced-stage bile duct cancer (stages 3 and 4) is unresectable, meaning that it cannot be completely removed by surgery because the cancer is too widespread or difficult to access.
Stage 3 means that the cancer has spread to nearby tissues, blood vessels, organs such as the gallbladder and pancreas and the lymph nodes
Stage 4 means that the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Common places where bile duct cancer can spread include the liver and lungs. You may hear this called advanced cancer, secondary bile duct cancer or metastatic bile duct cancer.
Symptoms related to bile duct cancer often don’t occur until the cancer has advanced and blocked the passage of bile from the liver to the gallbladder or small intestine.
When the bile duct is blocked, patients may notice such symptoms as:
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Itchiness
- Greasy or pale stools
- Darkened urine
Advanced bile duct cancers are also likely to cause stomach pain due to large tumors.
Treatment options for bile duct cancer in the final stage may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or palliative care. Palliative care is a type of care that focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life for people with advanced cancer. Usually, this means treatment will be focused on reducing symptoms and preventing further cancer spread.
It is important to speak with a healthcare professional about the treatment options that are available and the potential risks and benefits of each option. They will be able to help you make an informed decision about the best course of treatment for your individual situation.