Cholangiocarcinoma and the role of radiation and chemotherapy.

Cholangiocarcinoma is a rare tumor. Many cases are localized while metastatic disease within the liver and abdomen do occur. There is as yet no standard therapy for advanced bile duct tumors. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are not curative modalities in this condition but are being assessed adjuvantly following surgery, and as palliative treatment in an attempt to either extend progression-free and overall survival or to palliate symptoms. Advances may be made by: (i) The combined use of radiation and chemotherapy, (ii) High dose conformal radiotherapy, (iii) Novel chemotherapeutic agents. Patients should be given the opportunity to participate in clinical trials.