Klatskin Tumour Cholangiocarcinoma: What to Know

A Klatskin tumour is also called a perihilar cholangiocarcinoma. It develops in the bile ducts at the liver hilum, where ducts from the liver join before carrying bile toward the intestine. As the tumour narrows these ducts, bile can build up and cause yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, itching, nausea or discomfort in the upper abdomen. These symptoms can have other causes, so they do not establish a cancer diagnosis by themselves.

Doctors use blood tests and scans to examine the bile ducts, liver, nearby blood vessels and lymph nodes. Tissue sampling may be considered, although the safest way to obtain a sample depends on the anatomy and the planned treatment. A multidisciplinary team then considers whether the tumour can be removed, whether bile drainage is needed, and whether drug treatment has a role.

Arrange review with a specialist team experienced in bile-duct cancers. Bring scan reports, medication details and a record of symptoms such as fever, itching, abdominal pain or changes in urine and stool colour. If bile flow is blocked, a procedure to drain or support the duct may be discussed before other treatment.

For disease that can be removed, the operation may involve removing the affected bile ducts and part of the liver; the exact plan depends on involvement of vessels and nearby structures. Treatment may also include tumour removal surgery, chemotherapy or targeted therapy when testing identifies a relevant tumour feature. Ask how each option fits your scan findings and goals.

Seek urgent medical help for yellowing that is rapidly worsening, fever or chills with abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, confusion, fainting, or inability to keep fluids down. A blocked bile duct can become infected, and prompt assessment may be needed even when the underlying diagnosis is still being clarified.

Where exactly is the tumour, and does it involve blood vessels or lymph nodes? Is bile drainage needed now? Can surgery remove all visible disease? Which tissue or molecular tests could affect drug choices? What symptoms should prompt a same-day call?