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Ampullary Adenomacarcinoma

Ampullary adenocarcinoma is a rare tumor at the ampulla of Vater, where bile and pancreatic ducts meet. Dr. Scott and the GastroDoxs team in Houston provide comprehensive tailored diagnosis, cutting-edge treatments, and compassionate support to enhance outcomes and patient well-being.

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Scott Liu

About the Expert

Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Genetic syndromes (familial adenomatous polyposis, Lynch syndrome)
  • Chronic inflammation of the bile or pancreatic ducts (cholangitis, pancreatitis)
  • History of gallstones or gallbladder disease
  • Age over 60 years
  • Male gender
  • Smoking and heavy alcohol use

Signs and Symptoms

  • No noticeable signs in early stages
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
  • Dark urine and pale, clay-colored stools
  • Pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen
  • Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
  • Itching (pruritus) from bile salt buildup

How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Ampullary Adenocarcinoma

Dr. Scott uses several steps to find out if you have this condition:

Medical History and Physical Exam

He begins with a full health review and a physical exam, asking about your symptoms and medical history.

Blood Tests

Dr. Scott may order blood tests to assess liver function and check bilirubin levels.

Imaging Tests

Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be used to detect the presence and size of a tumor.

Endoscopic Ultrasound and Biopsy

To get a closer look, Dr. Scott may perform an endoscopic ultrasound. A small tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken during this procedure.

Lab Analysis

The biopsy is reviewed in a laboratory to confirm if the tumor is ampullary adenocarcinoma.

Dr. Scott
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for ampullary adenocarcinoma.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Healthy, low-fat meals rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
  • Stay well-hydrated with water and limit alcohol intake
  • Light exercise, such as walking, to maintain strength and support recovery

2. Medications

  • Anti-nausea and pain management medications to improve comfort
  • Bile-flow support agents (e.g., ursodeoxycholic acid) to ease jaundice
  • Nutritional supplements or enteral support for weight maintenance and nutrient absorption

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • ERCP with stent placement to relieve bile duct obstruction
  • Endoscopic mucosal resection for small, well-localized tumors
  • Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy) or laparoscopic approaches for larger lesions
Scott Liu

About the Expert

Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICD-10 code for ampullary adenocarcinoma?

The ICD-10 code is C24.1, which covers tumors located at the ampulla of Vater where the bile and pancreatic ducts meet the small intestine.

What causes ampullary adenocarcinoma?

While the exact cause is unknown, risk factors include genetic syndromes like familial adenomatous polyposis, chronic inflammation of bile or pancreatic ducts, smoking, heavy alcohol use, gallstones, pancreatitis, and age over 60.

What symptoms should I look for?

Early stages may be silent. As the tumor grows, you may notice jaundice (yellow skin/eyes), abdominal pain, pale stools, dark urine, unintended weight loss, and loss of appetite.

How is this cancer diagnosed?

Dr. Scott begins with a medical history and physical exam, then orders blood tests (liver function, bilirubin), imaging studies (ultrasound, CT, MRI), and an endoscopic ultrasound with biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

What treatment options are available?

Treatments include endoscopic procedures (ERCP with stent, mucosal resection for small tumors) and surgery (e.g., Whipple procedure for larger tumors). Chemotherapy or radiation may be added based on cancer type and stage.

What can I expect after treatment?

Recovery varies by tumor size and type. Many patients, especially with early intestinal-type tumors, do well. Dr. Scott provides a personalized follow-up plan to monitor your progress and support long-term health.

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