Summary
Metastatic obstructive jaundice usually results from an occlusion of the common hepatic
or bile duct. More rarely, the underlying cause is a disseminated intrahepatic infiltration
that has led to the occlusion of the bile canaliculi. The endoscopic-radiological
examination techniques usually permit a reliable differentiation between neoplasms
originating primarily in the biliary tract, and ductal occlusions caused by metastatic
disease. In addition to this, both ERC and PTC permit the placement of an internal
or external biliary drain during one and the same procedure. ERC represents a highly
suitable method for the follow-up monitoring or documentation of the therapeutic effect
of biliary drainage, radiotherapy and/or polychemotherapy. With the aid of regular
follow-up examinations, recurrent disease can be detected early on, and appropriately
treated.
Key words:
Metastatic obstructive jaundice - Biliary drainage - Polychemotherapy - Follow-up
examination
