Current State of Multidisciplinary Treatment in Cholangiocarcinoma

Abstract

Background: Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a highly aggressive malignancy, and its incidence seems to be increasing over the last years. Given the high rate of irresectability at the time of initial diagnosis, new treatment approaches are important to achieve better patient outcomes. Our review provides an overview of current multimodal therapy options across different specialties of gastroenterology/oncology, surgery, and interventional radiology.

Summary: CCA is subdivided into clinically and molecularly distinct phenotypes. Surgical treatment currently is the only potentially curative therapy, but unfortunately, the majority of all patients are not eligible for resection at the time of initial diagnosis due to anatomic location, inadequate hepatic reserve, metastatic disease, or limiting comorbidities. However, multimodal treatment options are available to prolong survival, relieve symptoms, and maintain life quality.

Key messages: The treatment of CCA is complex and requires close interdisciplinary collaboration and individualized treatment planning to ensure optimal patient care at specialized centers. Molecular profiling of patients and inclusion into clinical trials is highly recommended.

Keywords: Cholangiocarcinoma; Immunotherapy; Molecular profiling; Multidisciplinary treatment; Targeted therapy.