Cholangiocarcinoma and Gallbladder Cases: An Expert Panel Case-Based Discussion

Semin Radiat Oncol. 2018 Oct;28(4):351-361. doi: 10.1016/j.semradonc.2018.06.004.

Abstract

Cholangiocarcinoma and gallbladder malignancies are aggressive gastrointestinal malignancies with management dependent on resectability, comorbidities, and location. A multidisciplinary discussion with medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgeons is necessary to determine the optimal treatment approach for each patient. Surgical resection offers the best chance for a long-term cure. Recent studies, such as the phase II SWOG S0809 and the phase III BILCAP study have highlighted the importance of adjuvant treatment with radiation therapy and chemotherapy, respectively, in resected disease. In patients with unresectable disease chemotherapy and chemoradiation therapy to a high dose can improve overall survival and locoregional control. In this expert panel we have brought together radiation oncologists and a medical oncologist to provide case-based feedback on their institutional practices.

Publication types

  • Clinical Conference
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Bile Duct Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Bile Duct Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Biliary Tract Surgical Procedures
  • Biomarkers, Tumor / analysis
  • Chemotherapy, Adjuvant
  • Cholangiocarcinoma / diagnostic imaging
  • Cholangiocarcinoma / therapy*
  • Comorbidity
  • Gallbladder Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Gallbladder Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiotherapy, Adjuvant

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor