Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma in a low endemic area: rising incidence and improved survival

Abstract

Background: To explore trends in the incidence and survival of patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) an unselected population in Western Europe was studied.

Methods: Between 1989 and 2009, all patients newly diagnosed with ICC were selected from the Netherlands Cancer Registry (n= 809). Trends in incidence, treatment and relative survival were calculated according to gender and age. Follow-up for vital status was complete until 1st January 2010.

Results: The incidence rates of ICC increased significantly between 1999 and 2009, especially in the age group 45-59 years [estimated annual percentage change +3.0%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.2-5.8]. In the other age groups ICC incidence remained stable. Patients diagnosed with tumour lymph node metastasis (TNM) stage I mainly underwent surgery (68%), and the majority of the patients with stage II, III and IV received best supportive care (73%). One-year relative survival for patients with ICC increased significantly from 24% in 1989-1994 to 28% in 2005-2009 (P= 0.03), and corresponding 3-year relative survival improved from 4% to 8% (P= 0.02). Three-month and 1-year relative survival for patients with ICC receiving surgery was 91% and 71%, respectively.

Discussion: Between 1999 and 2009, the incidence of ICC rose, especially in the age group 45-59 years, suggesting aetiological influences. Survival rates have improved during the study period.

© 2012 International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association.

Figures

Figure 1

Trends (3-year moving averages) in age-standardized incidence rates (ESR) for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) according to gender, in the Netherlands, 1989–2009

Figure 2

Trends (3-year moving averages) in age-specific incidence rates (ESR) for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) in the Netherlands, 1989–2009