Klatskin tumor
Pronunciation: KLAT-skin
A type of bile duct cancer arising at the confluence of the right and left hepatic ducts, also known as hilar cholangiocarcinoma.
Full Definition
A Klatskin tumor is a specific subtype of cholangiocarcinoma that arises at the hepatic duct bifurcation where the right and left hepatic ducts join to form the common hepatic duct. Named after American pathologist Gerald Klatskin who first described these tumors in 1965, they represent the most common form of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. These tumors are particularly challenging to treat due to their location and tendency to invade along bile ducts, often making complete surgical resection difficult. The Bismuth-Corlette classification system is used to categorize Klatskin tumors based on their extent and involvement of hepatic duct branches, which helps guide surgical planning and determine resectability.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Dr. Gerald Klatskin; capitalize when referring to the specific tumor type.
In Context
- "The Klatskin tumor was classified as Bismuth-Corlette Type IIIa based on involvement of the right hepatic duct system." — Preoperative staging report
- "Preoperative biliary drainage was performed before planned resection of the Klatskin tumor to optimize liver function." — Hepatobiliary surgery plan