[Extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: current state of palliation therapy]. / Extrahepatische Gallenwegstumoren: aktueller Stand der palliativen Therapie.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Decompression of bile ducts is the priority objective in the non-curative stage of hilar cholangiocarcinoma. Only this will prevent or slow down infectious complications and secondary biliary cirrhosis thereby sustaining the quality of life. KEY STATEMENTS At present, photodynamic therapy combined with insertion of an endoprosthesis seems to be best documented and most appropriate therapy. METHODS: Data from a selective literature search combined with our clinical experience were evaluated. CONCLUSIONS: Therapeutic measures should match the dissemination and stage of the tumor in locally advanced or progressing disease (stage III) a local ablating therapy, in systemically progressing disease (stage IV) systemic chemotherapy should be utilised.