She died of a very rare form of cancer..overall incidence of 6 cases per 1 million individuals. The average age at time of diagnosis of ampullary carcinoma is 60–70 years. [..] The form of cancer Karen Black died from, ampullary cancer, is very rare. Also known as ampullary carcinoma, the cancer forms in an opening of the small intestine called the ampulla of Vater. Pancreatic and bile ducts release secretions into the intestines via the ampulla of Vater. An ampullary cancer blocking this flow of secretions leads to jaundice and bile accumulating in the bloodstream.
The standard treatment for ampullary cancer is known as the Whipple procedure, an operation in which part of the pancreas and the small intestine is removed. Under the most favorable circumstances, an ampullary cancer patient can live for up to five years.
According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, "Ampullary cancer is such a rare condition that experts aren't sure what steps, if any, can be taken to prevent it. It does appear to be more common among men than women." [..]
http://www.isciencetimes.com/articl...-ampullary-cancer-easy-rider-actress-dead.htm {..] Carcinoma of the ampulla of Vater tends to manifest early due to biliary outflow obstruction, as opposed to pancreatic neoplasms that often are advanced at the time of diagnosis.
Surgical resection with curative intent is the only option for long-term survival. Surgical, endoscopic, or radiologic biliary decompression; relief of gastric outlet obstruction; and adequate pain control may improve the quality of life but do not affect overall survival rate.[..]