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What is the name of the tumor that involves the junction of the right and left hepatic ducts?
Hepatoma
Klatskin tumor
Fibrolamellar carcinoma
Cystadenocarcinoma
The correct answer is: Klatskin tumor
The tumor that involves the junction of the right and left hepatic ducts is referred to as a Klatskin tumor, also known as a cholangiocarcinoma. This specific type of cancer arises at the hepatic duct bifurcation, where the right and left hepatic ducts merge to form the common hepatic duct. The relevance of this location lies in the tumor's potential to obstruct bile flow, leading to jaundice and other complications related to bile duct obstruction. Klatskin tumors are significant because they are often diagnosed late due to their asymptomatic nature in early stages and can be challenging to treat, making early recognition crucial for patient outcomes. Other types of tumors listed do not specifically correlate to this anatomical location: hepatomas originate in the liver tissue itself, fibrolamellar carcinoma is a variant of hepatocellular carcinoma, and cystadenocarcinoma generally arises from cystic structures rather than the bile ducts. Understanding the specific characteristics and locations of these tumors is essential for surgical assistants and related healthcare professionals in planning appropriate interventions.