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ampullary carcinoma
Cancer arising from the ampulla of Vater, where the bile and pancreatic ducts meet.
Full Definition
Ampullary carcinoma is a relatively rare malignancy that develops at the ampulla of Vater, the anatomical structure where the common bile duct and main pancreatic duct converge and empty into the duodenum. These tumors often present earlier than pancreatic cancers due to obstruction of bile flow causing jaundice. The prognosis is generally better than pancreatic adenocarcinoma, and surgical resection via pancreaticoduodenectomy offers the best chance for cure. Histologically, these can be of intestinal or pancreatobiliary type, with different prognostic implications.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from periampullary tumors, which is a broader category.
In Context
- "Ampullary carcinoma was confirmed on endoscopic biopsy with intestinal-type histology." — Diagnostic report
- "The 5-year survival rate for ampullary carcinoma exceeds that of pancreatic cancer." — Clinical research paper
Also known as
cancer of ampulla of Vater
periampullary carcinoma
Don't confuse with
pancreatic head adenocarcinoma
distal cholangiocarcinoma