Human pathology

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choledochal cyst

congenital choledochal cyst

Definition: Choledochal cysts are rare congenital or acquired cystic dilatations of the intra- or extrahepatic bile ducts. Their exact pathophysiology remains unclear.

Extensive complications exist with untreated cysts including biliary stasis and inflammation, with resultant stricture and stone formation, cholangitis, pancreatitis, and malignant degeneration.

Most commonly reported malignancies include cholangiocarcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and gallbladder cancer.

Complications

- bile duct tumors

  • cholangiocarcinoma
  • adenocarcinoma
  • squamous cell carcinoma
  • gallbladder cancer
  • Pleomorphic rhabdomyosarcoma (16967793)

- chronic calcific pancreatitis (+/- papillary stenosis)

See also

- biliary malformations