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Semin intervent Radiol 1998; 15(4): 403-406
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1057033
Copyright © 1998 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Photodynamic Therapy for the Palliative Treatment of Cholangiocarcinoma

Michael L. Kochman, R. Alex Hsi
  • Gastroenterology Division, Department of Medicine, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Publication Date:
21 May 2008 (online)

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Abstract

Cholangiocarcinoma is difficult to treat due to the advanced nature of the lesions at the time of diagnosis and the central location within the liver. Current management strategies involve surgical bypass, transhepatic percutaneous biliary stenting, externalized and internalized drainage systems, brachytherapy, and endoscopic stenting techniques. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) for palliation of unresectable cholangiocarcinoma has recently been described. This article reviews the techniques and early results of PDT in the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma.

Keywords:

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) - cholangiocarcinoma