Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 19, 2026

Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Biliary Drainage: Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Hepaticogastrostomy in Malignant Biliary Obstruction
Published on: March 25, 2022
Biliary strictures and masses: an expanded differential diagnosis
Matthew T Heller1, Amir A Borhani, Alessandro Furlan
1Division of Abdominal Imaging, UPMC Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, 200 Lothrop St, Ste 3950 PST, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA, hellermt@upmc.edu.
Cholangiocarcinoma is a common cause of biliary strictures and masses. This study highlights other potential causes and emphasizes key findings for diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Medical imaging
- Gastroenterology
- Oncology
Background:
- Biliary strictures and masses frequently indicate cholangiocarcinoma.
- A diverse range of conditions can mimic these findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the differential diagnosis for biliary strictures and masses.
- To identify key clinical and imaging findings for accurate diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on biliary strictures and masses.
- Analysis of clinical and imaging characteristics of various etiologies.
Main Results:
- Cholangiocarcinoma is a primary consideration.
- Congenital, infectious, inflammatory, autoimmune, iatrogenic, and neoplastic conditions present similar findings.
- Specific imaging features and clinical presentations aid differentiation.
Conclusions:
- Accurate diagnosis requires considering multiple etiologies beyond cholangiocarcinoma.
- Knowledge of key findings is crucial for effective patient management.
- Timely diagnosis improves treatment outcomes for biliary diseases.
Related Concept Videos
Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management
Healthcare providers should gather a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination for diagnosis. If esophageal stricture is...
Cholecystitis
Esophageal Strictures-I: Introduction
Etiology
The primary cause of esophageal strictures is long-standing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), accounting for about 70 to 80% of adult cases. Chronic acid reflux can lead to injury and scarring of the esophageal lining, culminating in...
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The distinctive feature is recurrent abdominal pain associated with altered bowel movements, manifesting as constipation, diarrhea, or fluctuating between both. The...
Endoscopic Procedures V: ERCP
Patient...

