Proposing re-classification of bile duct cancer and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: A suggested modification based on the WHO classification.

The current definition of bile duct-derived cancer is overly broad and ambiguous, encompassing all malignant tumors arising from the biliary epithelium throughout the intrahepatic biliary tree. However, the lack of a systematic approach to refining the carcinoma of intrahepatic bile duct cancers (CIBDs) definition has hindered the development of optimal treatment strategies for affected patients. To address this issue, we conducted a comprehensive review of the World Health Organization (WHO) Classification of Tumors, incorporating key considerations such as anatomical location, tumor origin, pathological classification, biological behavior, clinical manifestations, and therapeutic approaches. Based on this comprehensive analysis, we propose a refined classification system for CIBDs. We believe this framework would help standardize and unify the categorization of CIBDs in clinical practice.