Distinguishing post-treatment changes from recurrent disease in cholangiocarcinoma: a case report

J Med Case Rep. 2008 Mar 7:2:76. doi: 10.1186/1752-1947-2-76.

Abstract

Introduction: Three-dimensional techniques for radiotherapy have expanded possibilities for partial volume liver radiotherapy. Characteristic, transient radiographic changes can occur in the absence of clinical radiation-induced liver disease after hepatic radiotherapy and must be distinguished from local recurrence.

Case presentation: In this report, we describe computed tomography changes after chemoradiotherapy for cholangiocarcinoma as an example of collaboration to determine the clinical significance of the radiographic finding.

Conclusion: Because of improved three-dimensional, conformal radiotherapy techniques, consultation across disciplines may be necessary to interpret post-treatment imaging findings.