| [ Summary ] |
Cholangiography, obtained by the percutaneous transhepatic or endoscopic transduodenal approach, is the key diagnostic method in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). PSC affects the entire biliary tree in a diffuse but non-uniform manner. The characteristic findings of cholangiography are annular strictures, web-like strictures, pruned tree sign, beaded appearance, diverticulum-like outpouching, and shaggy appearance.
The risk of developing cholangiocarcinoma in patients with PSC is high, but the diagnosis is extremely difficult. Regardless of therapy, the prognosis for patients with cholangiocarcinoma complicating PSC has been uniformly poor. There is a clear need for heighened clinical awareness, methods for earlier detection, and effective therapy for patients with cholangiocarcinoma complicating PSC. |