Klatskin tumor is a type of bile duct cancer that occurs in the area where the right and left hepatic ducts join. It is a rare form of cancer that is usually diagnosed in people over the age of 50. Symptoms of Klatskin tumor include jaundice, abdominal pain, and weight loss. Treatment typically involves surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

The most common symptoms of Klatskin tumor are Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, dark urine, pale stools, and itching. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, fever, weight loss, and fatigue.

Klatskin tumors are caused by a genetic mutation in the bile ducts, which can be inherited or acquired. The mutation causes the cells in the bile ducts to grow abnormally, forming a tumor. Risk factors for developing a Klatskin tumor include a family history of the condition, chronic inflammation of the bile ducts, and certain genetic conditions such as cystic fibrosis.

The main treatment for Klatskin tumor is surgery. Depending on the size and location of the tumor, the surgeon may remove the entire bile duct, part of the liver, and nearby lymph nodes. Other treatments may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.

The primary risk factor for Klatskin tumor is a long-term history of chronic inflammation of the bile ducts, which is often caused by gallstones or infection. Other risk factors include cirrhosis of the liver, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and a family history of bile duct cancer.

There is no cure for Klatskin tumor, but treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery may be used to help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Medications such as targeted therapy drugs, immunotherapy drugs, and hormone therapy drugs may also be used to help manage the symptoms.