What Are The Symptoms Of Ampullary Cancer?
Ampullary cancer is a type of uncommon malignancy that develops in the area of the digestive system called the ampulla of Vater. This area is where the ducts that come from the pancreas and gallbladder attach to the small intestine to secrete substances necessary for healthy digestion. Because of its proximity to other digestive system components, ampullary cancer often spreads and affects the normal function of other organs such as the pancreas, small intestine, liver, and gallbladder. This type of malignancy is diagnosed with the use of medical imaging, diagnostic endoscopy, and tissue biopsy. The preferred and most effective treatment for ampullary cancer is surgical removal of the tumor. This objective is usually accomplished with a procedure called a pancreaticoduodenectomy. Although ampullary cancer is rare, its symptoms can mimic those of other unrelated conditions.