Cholangiocarcinoma

Cholangiocarcinoma is a cancer that arises from the cells lining the bile ducts — the small tubes that carry bile from the liver to the intestine. It tends to grow slowly at first but can eventually interfere with the flow of bile, leading to a build-up that affects liver function and causes visible changes in the body. Owners often notice a gradual loss of appetite, weight loss, or a yellowish tint to the gums, skin, or the whites of the eyes — a sign that bile pigments are accumulating. Vomiting, lethargy, and a swollen or uncomfortable abdomen may also develop as the condition progresses. Because the early signs can be subtle and non-specific, cholangiocarcinoma is sometimes identified during investigations for other concerns. This page explores what may prompt further investigation, what is happening inside the bile ducts and liver, how the condition is identified through imaging and other tests, and the range of approaches that may be considered depending on the tumour's location, extent, and the individual animal's circumstances.