Aging and biliary tract cancers: Epidemiology, molecular biology, and clinical practice

Abstract Biliary tract cancer (BTC) that contains cholangiocarcinoma, gallbladder cancer, and ampullary cancer is highly malignant and mostly diagnosed in elderly patients. Over the past decades, human life has globally risen; thus, aging emerges as the primary risk factor for BTC. However, an effec...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Xiaoling Weng, Xiaoling Song, Rong Shao, Fatao Liu, Yingbin Liu
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Wiley 2022-06-01
Series:Aging and Cancer
Subjects:
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1002/aac2.12054
Description
Summary:Abstract Biliary tract cancer (BTC) that contains cholangiocarcinoma, gallbladder cancer, and ampullary cancer is highly malignant and mostly diagnosed in elderly patients. Over the past decades, human life has globally risen; thus, aging emerges as the primary risk factor for BTC. However, an effective treatment for this vulnerable population remains a large clinical challenge. As a result, the incidence and mortality of TBC remains high. Here, we discuss the potential link between aging and BTC from the aspects of molecular and cellular mechanisms, surgical resection, and chemotherapy. In addition, we update a number of clinical trials that are currently ongoing in elderly patients. The overview of BTC in elderly patients is expected to help develop a new therapeutic strategy tailored to this elderly population, ultimately improving their life quality.
ISSN:2643-8909