Ampullary Carcinoma is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the ampulla of Vater, a small region where the bile and pancreatic ducts meet and empty into the small intestine.
Types:
1. Ampullary adenocarcinoma: Most common type, arising from glandular cells.
2. Ampullary neuroendocrine tumor: Rare type, arising from hormone-producing cells.
Causes and Risk Factors:
1. Genetic mutations: Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Peutz-Jeghers syndrome.
2. Chronic inflammation: Pancreatitis or bile duct inflammation.
3. Smoking
4. Obesity
Symptoms:
1. Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
2. Abdominal pain
3. Weight loss
4. Fatigue
5. Dark urine
6. Pale stools
Diagnosis:
1. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP):
2. Computed tomography (CT) scan:
3. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI):
4. Biopsy:
Treatment:
1. Surgery: Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy) or local resection.
2. Chemotherapy
3. Radiation therapy
4. Palliative care: Relief of symptoms, pain management.
Prognosis:
Ampullary carcinoma has a relatively better prognosis compared to pancreatic cancer, with a 5-year survival rate of around 30-50%. Early detection and treatment improve outcomes.
This article is for information purpose only. Please consult your doctor for treatment only.