Hello Louise and thank you for posting.

It can be stressful and cause anxiety waiting for tests and test results; this must not be easy.

There can be many reasons for a blocked bile duct, such as gallstones or inflammation and in some situations, cancer. To make a definite diagnosis, there are usually several steps that are involved. These can include, as you have already mentioned, imaging: MRI, CT and ultrasound, which show whether the ducts are blocked and if there’s a mass or abnormal narrowing (stricture), along with blood tests such as liver function test.

Other procedures that may be done include endoscopic procedures such as ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography), which can be done to relieve the blockage, take brushings or biopsies, and place a stent if needed. However, a biopsy is the best way to confirm a diagnosis.

We have more information about tests for bile duct cancer that I hope will be useful. I imagine the next step may be an ERCP or EUS (endoscopic ultrasound) to get tissue samples and decide the best plan.

If cancer is confirmed (bile duct cancer or cholangiocarcinoma), treatment depends on where it is and whether surgery is possible: Surgery is done if the tumour is localised and operable. Other options may include: Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted or immunotherapy (depending on the situation).

The team at the hospital are best placed to say what happens next, as they know your husband's situation.

I hope you can get some answers soon. Feel free to come back to us. If you would like to speak with one of our nurses on the helpline, we are available 9-5 Monday - Friday, freephone 0808 800 4040.

Jemma