Hilar Cholangiocarcinoma (Klatskin tumor)

......................................... Received: 23-05-11 Accepted: 01-06-11 Abstract This is a clinical case of a 71-year-old man with an obstructive lesion of the hepatic hilum, the clinical, imaging studies and the lab tests suggest a Klatskin tumor, which was managed by percutaneous biliary drainage to relieve the jaundice. In this review we consider the pathogenetic factors of these tumors, a new anatomic classifi cation and the various alternative imaging studies, emphasizing the Bismuth-Corlette classifi cation. Confront palliative alternatives, such as different types of endoscopic stents or percutaneous approach, drainage extension (uni or bilateral). Finally, we review the surgical aspects and possibilities of chemotherapy and radiotherapy in these tumors.