Diseases and Conditions
Cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer)
Overview
Symptoms
Causes
Risk factors
Prevention
Diagnosis
Treatment
Coping and support
Preparing for an appointment
Causes
Cholangiocarcinoma happens when cells in the bile ducts develop changes in their DNA. A cell's DNA contains the instructions that tell a cell what to do. The changes tell the cells to multiply out of control and form a mass of cells (tumor) that can invade and destroy healthy body tissue. It's not clear what causes the changes that lead to cholangiocarcinoma.
