Bile Duct Cancer Vs. Cholecytitis

According to the American Cancer Society, bile duct cancer is usually caused by the development of glandular cells within bile duct's mucus glands. This condition is referred to as cholangiocarcinoma. Cholecytitis is a condition that occurs when the gallbladder becomes inflamed as a result of an infection or gallstones.

Significance

• According to the American Cancer Society, between 2,000 and 3,000 people are diagnosed with bile duct cancer each year. According to the National Institutes of Health, about 500,000 gallbladder removals are performed each--most of these are the result of cholecytitis.

Time Frame

• Bile duct cancer occurs most often in adults older than the age of 65. Cholecytitis occurs most commonly in women and becomes more prevalent with age.

Symptoms

• Bile duct cancer usually does not cause symptoms until the cancer has progressed. The primary symptom associated with bile duct cancer is jaundice. Cholecytitis may cause pain that is either sharp or dull in the upper right abdominal area along with other symptoms.

Diagnosis

• Bile duct cancer may be diagnosed with a combination of blood tests, x-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds, MRIs and cholangiography tests; exploratory surgery and biopsies also may be used. Cholecytitis may be diagnosed using blood tests, ultrasounds, CT scans and x-rays.

Treatment

• The preferred treatment of bile duct cancer is to surgically remove cancerous tissues; radiation therapy or chemotherapy also may be used. The treatment for cholecytitis is almost always surgical removal of the gallbladder.