Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangioscopy and Palliative Photodynamic Therapy of a Cholangiocellular Carcinoma (Klatskin Tumor)

Abstract

Owing to the growth direction of cholangiocellular carcinomas along the bile ducts, these tumors are often detected in a late stage. Klatskin tumors are mostly presented by jaundice. In cases of advanced inoperable tumors, a palliative photodynamic therapy (PDT) is possible. The aim of a PDT is a selective destruction of tumor tissue caused by the activation of photosensitizers by laser light. After the application of photosensitizers, they accumulate in the tumor and photochemistry reactions start by the influence of laser light. This leads to tumor necrosis. A common photosensitizer for cholangiocellular carcinomas is photofrin. After a PDT, it is necessary to perform light protection for nearly 2 months.The authors present a case of a patient who underwent percutaneous transhepatic cholangioscopy and palliative PDT of a cholangiocellular carcinoma (Klatskin tumor). This article is part of an expert video encyclopedia.