Follow-up Care for Bile Duct Cancer

Executive Summary

Follow-up care for bile duct cancer refers to the after-treatment protocols conducted by the healthcare team to look after recurrence, manage the side effects, and monitor the patients’ overall health. If the patient has any symptoms of jaundice and abdominal discomfort, the patient should immediately visit their doctor. The chances of bile duct tumour returning (recurring) are incredibly high during the first few years; hence close monitoring is required. Follow-up care in bile duct cancer mainly involves inquiring about the treatment’s side effects and how to deal with the issue. Both medical and physical examinations are included in the follow-up care of bile duct tumour. The physical examination includes looking for pain or increased pain in the abdomen and examining for jaundice and a bulge in the belly. Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, a CT scan, or an MRI, determine whether cancer has returned or grown in size. Liver function may also be assessed by blood testing. The treatment plan is discussed with the healthcare team in case of any recurrence.

Follow-up Care for Bile Duct Cancer

Following up on treatment is an essential element of cancer treatment. Cancer experts and your primary care physician frequently share follow-ups for bile duct cancer ^​1​. Your healthcare team will work with you to choose the best course of action for you. Don’t put off reporting any new or persistent symptoms until your next scheduled appointment. If you have any of the following symptoms, tell your doctor.

• Jaundice
• abdominal discomfort (belly)

Within the first few years, the chances of bile duct cancer returning (recurring) are incredibly high; hence close monitoring is required.

During Bile Duct Cancer follow-up appointments or a follow-up visit, your healthcare team will typically inquire about the treatment’s side effects and how you’re dealing with them. They might also ask about your weight, appetite, and digestion.

A physical exam by your doctor may include looking for pain or an increase in pain in the abdomen and examining for jaundice and a bulge in the belly.

Bile Duct Cancer Follow-up care frequently includes tests. You could have:

Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, a CT scan, or an MRI, may determine whether cancer has returned or grown in size.

Liver function may also be assessed by blood testing.

If your cancer has returned, you and your healthcare team will discuss a treatment and care plan.

References