If you have been diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma, the single most important thing you can do is
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Newly Diagnosed
Seek a second opinion. No, really. It’s that important.
If you have been diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma, the single most important thing you can do is to see an oncologist and surgeon who specialise in your specific type of cancer.
Your Professional Specialist should have current experience in treating many other patients just like you, they should be involved in ongoing research. They should also be familiar with current clinical trials that could be available to you.
When it comes to treating cancer, expertise can mean the difference between life and death.
CCA Patient Toolkit
As a newly diagnosed patient “You do not know what you do not know – but must know,“ that’s what the CCA Patient Toolkit helps you with. A simple step-by-step guide that equips and empowers you to better respond and navigate your way forward from the moment you are diagnosed. A bridge across the cancer information abyss and a pathway forward to keep you on track.
If you need help in finding what you are looking for or need help, please contact Mandy Wallace our CCF New Zealand Director of Advocacy mandy@cholangiocarcinomaNewZealand.org
Helping you help yourself
Ask your doctor about biomarker testing (molecular profiling).
Biomarker testing scans the DNA of your cancer cells for cancer-causing genetic mutations and other molecular abnormalities. This information can be used to match some patients to the most effective treatment available, whether it’s an existing drug or one under study in a clinical trial.
While comprehensive biomarker testing is not yet routine, it is covered for all Medicare patients with advanced solid tumors. It is also increasingly offered at academic medical centers — another reason why going to a major center is important — and is frequently part of clinical trial protocols.
Most cancers, when first diagnosed, have a standard of care: a treatment regimen that is widely accepted as the best approach to fighting the disease. The standard of care for cholangiocarcinoma can be found by looking at the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines, which are based on the most up-to-date scientific evidence.
