Cholangiocarcinoma: Diagnosis and Pre-operative Evaluation

Abstract

Cholangiocarcinoma is a primary malignancy of the biliary tree that comprises various anatomic and histologic subtypes. The purpose of this manuscript is to review the various imaging manifestations of cholangiocarcinoma in order to aid clinical radiologists in the diagnosis and classification of the complex malignancy, and to aid clinical colleagues in facilitating proper clinical management. Various imaging modalities may aid in the proper diagnosis and staging of cholangiocarcinoma. Recent studies have advocated the use of hepatobiliary phase magnetic resonance imaging following gadoxetic acid administration in order to improve lesion conspicuity and detection of satellite nodules and intrahepatic metastases. Accurate recognition and classification of cholangiocarcinoma is essential for proper patient management. A thorough understanding of the different anatomic classifications, morphological patterns, and the mode of metastatic spread of cholangiocarcinoma is essential for radiologists involved in the interpretation of abdominal imaging studies.