What is Ampullary Cancer?
Ampullary cancer is a rare type of cancer that begins in the Ampulla of Vater—the small area where the bile duct and pancreatic duct join and empty into the small intestine. This cancer is more common in older adults, particularly those over 70 years old, and may be more likely in people with certain inherited genetic conditions.
What Causes Ampullary Cancer?
There is no single known cause, but it occurs when DNA changes in the cells of the Ampulla of Vater, causing them to grow uncontrollably and form a tumour. If left untreated, the cancer can spread to other parts of the body.
Signs and Symptoms
People with ampullary cancer may experience:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Diarrhea (frequent loose stools)
- Clay-colored stool (gray or pale stools)
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Blood in the stool
- Nausea and vomiting
- Unintentional weight loss
How is Ampullary Cancer Diagnosed?
Doctors use several tests to confirm the diagnosis, including:
- Physical Examination: Checking for visible symptoms like jaundice and abdominal pain.
- Imaging Tests: CT scans or MRIs help locate the tumour and determine its size.
- Endoscopy: A small camera is inserted into the digestive tract to examine the Ampulla of Vater.
- Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken to confirm if the tumour is cancerous.
Treatment Options
- Surgery: The main treatment is Whipple surgery, which removes the tumour and parts of surrounding organs if needed.
- Chemotherapy & Radiation Therapy: These treatments help shrink the tumour before surgery or kill remaining cancer cells afterward.
Outlook
Early diagnosis improves the chances of successful treatment. If caught in the early stages, surgery offers the best chance for a cure. However, ongoing follow-ups are necessary to monitor for recurrence.
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Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways: