What is an ampullary mass?
An ampullary mass is a growth near the place where the bile duct and pancreatic duct meet and empty into the small intestine. This spot is called the ampulla of Vater and helps move fluids that aid digestion.
Common related conditions
Causes of an ampullary mass
Ampullary masses can happen when cells in the area grow the wrong way. Sometimes they are non-cancerous, but they can also be cancerous.
- Changes in cells near the bile or pancreatic duct
- Long-term inflammation in the area
- Inherited health problems like FAP (familial adenomatous polyposis)
Risk factors for an ampullary mass
Certain things can make a person more likely to get an ampullary mass.
- Being over age 50
- Family history of colon or intestinal cancers
- Having a condition like FAP or Lynch syndrome
- Long-term problems with the pancreas or bile duct
Symptoms of an ampullary mass
These masses can block the flow of bile or digestive juices, causing:
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Belly pain
- Nausea or throwing up
- Itchy skin
- Pale-colored feces or dark urine
Diagnosing ampullary mass
Doctors use tests to find out if there is a mass and what kind it is.
- Blood tests to check liver and pancreas function
- CT or MRI scans to look inside the body
- Endoscopy (a thin tube with a camera goes down your throat)
- Biopsy to check the tissue under a microscope
Treatment of an ampullary mass
Treatment depends on whether the mass is cancerous and how far it has spread.
- Surgery to remove the mass (often the Whipple procedure)
- Endoscopic treatment to open blocked ducts
- Chemotherapy or radiation if cancer is found
- Medicines to manage symptoms
When to seek care
Call your doctor if you notice:
- Yellow skin or eyes
- Ongoing stomach pain
- Losing weight without trying
- Light-colored poop or very dark urine
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