What are the symptoms of bile duct cancer

Cholangiocarcinoma is a malignant tumor and is now a life-threatening disease. It is necessary for everyone to understand some disease knowledge about bile duct cancer. Whether it is treated in time after the disease directly affects the treatment effect and survival rate, so we need to understand some disease characteristics. So, what are the symptoms of bile duct cancer? Let's take a look.

Symptoms of bile duct cancer

1. Jaundice

Patients may develop jaundice, which is a persistent jaundice that gradually worsens, accompanied by itching and weight loss. A small number of patients without jaundice present with upper abdominal pain, sometimes accompanied by fever and abdominal mass. Other symptoms include loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, and weight loss.

2. Abnormal bowel movements

The stool is grayish white, with a white clay color, and the urine is dark yellow, like strong tea.

3. Enlarged gallbladder

Patients with middle and lower bile duct cancer may have an enlarged gallbladder, but Murphy's sign may be negative; while the gallbladder of patients with hilar bile duct cancer is generally not enlarged.

4. Liver damage

Compensation of liver function may cause ascites or edema of the lower limbs. If the tumor invades or compresses the portal vein, it will cause portal hypertension; advanced patients may develop hepatorenal syndrome.

5. Biliary tract infection

Patients may have biliary infection, the most common bacteria are Escherichia coli, Streptococcus faecalis and anaerobic bacteria. Endoscopic and interventional radiological examinations can induce or aggravate biliary infection, causing right upper abdominal pain, chills, high fever, jaundice, and even shock.

6. Bile duct bleeding

If the tumor ruptures, it may cause upper gastrointestinal bleeding, black stools, positive occult blood in the stool, and anemia.

The above is a detailed introduction to the symptoms of bile duct cancer. It is hoped that patients will promptly report the above symptoms to their attending physicians when they find them clinically, and receive appropriate treatment with the assistance of the doctor in a timely manner.