American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

Which of the following is a characteristic of type 1 cholangiocarcinoma?

1. Only occurs in the left hepatic duct

2. Only occurred in the common hepatic duct

3. Occurs in both the hilum and right hepatic duct

4. Non-resectable

The correct answer is: Only occurred in the common hepatic duct

Type 1 cholangiocarcinoma, also known as perihilar cholangiocarcinoma or Klatskin tumor, is characterized by its anatomical location affecting the bile ducts at the hilum. It typically arises in the area where the left and right hepatic ducts converge to form the common hepatic duct. This type of cancer is particularly relevant in the context of its behavior and resection criteria. In patients diagnosed with type 1 cholangiocarcinoma, the tumor primarily involves the common hepatic duct, with the potential impact extending into the left and right hepatic ducts without typically extending into the intrahepatic ducts. This characteristic makes it essential for surgical planning and understanding the spread of the tumor. The classification of cholangiocarcinomas is crucial for diagnosis and management, as other types, such as type 2 or type 3, involve different locations and clinical behaviors. Therefore, understanding that type 1 specifically occurs at the common hepatic duct aids in clinical decision-making and provides insights into the best management strategies for the patient.