Tumors of the biliary tract
Summary
Tumors of the biliary tract are a heterogeneous and diverse group, which includes both benign and malignant conditions that develop within the biliary tract. This chapter offers diverse images that provide an overview of tumors of the biliary tract and aims to provide a synopsis through pictures and illustrations rather than through text. Biliary tract tumors vary in their presentation, natural history, and management. The main types of biliary tract cancers are cholangiocarcinomas, arising from the intrahepatic and extrahepatic bile ducts; gallbladder cancer, arising from the gall bladder and cystic duct, and ampullary cancers, arising from biliary epithelia at the ampulla of Vater. The presentation, evaluation, and management of periampullary tumors of biliary tract origin are identical to those of any of the other types of periampullary tumors, namely pancreatic, duodenal, or ampullary tumors.