Bile Duct Cancer Overview The condition Bile duct cancer, medically known as cholangiocarcinoma, is a rare but aggressive cancerous condition that arises in the ducts, which are tubes that carry biles from the liver to the small intestine. Bile is a fluid produced by the liver that helps digest fats. When cancer forms in these ducts, it can block the flow of bile and lead to serious health complications. There are three main types of cholangiocarcinoma, depending on where it starts: Although bile duct cancer is rare, it’s especially challenging because symptoms usually appear late — often after the disease has already advanced. Early detection is difficult, and by the time it is diagnosed, it may have spread to surrounding tissues or organs. Key symptoms include: In South Africa, doctors may miss early-stages— particularly in rural or low-resource areas with limited access to specialists and imaging. Doctors often mistake it for more common liver conditions, such as hepatitis or gallstones. Bile Duct Cancer While the prognosis for advanced stages can be poor, early intervention with surgery or specialised therapies can improve outcomes. Newer treatments are emerging, offering hope for improved survival in select cases. 👉 [Next: Causes and Risk Factors of Cholangiocarcinoma]