Cholestatic jaundice is a medical condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin and eyes, known as jaundice, resulting from impaired or blocked bile flow from the liver. It occurs when the liver is unable to process bile or when the flow of bile is obstructed within the biliary system, which includes the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts.
Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver that helps break down fats and eliminate waste products from the body. In cholestatic jaundice, the impaired or blocked flow of bile leads to a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down, and its accumulation in the body causes the yellowing discoloration characteristic of jaundice.
This condition can be caused by various factors, such as liver inflammation, gallstones, tumors, duct obstruction, or certain drugs. Symptoms of cholestatic jaundice may include yellowing of the skin and eyes, pale stools, dark urine, fatigue, abdominal pain, and itchiness.
Treatment for cholestatic jaundice typically involves addressing the underlying cause and improving bile flow. This may involve removing gallstones, managing liver inflammation, or relieving duct obstructions. Additionally, medications may be prescribed to dissolve gallstones or promote bile production. In severe cases, surgical intervention or liver transplantation may be necessary.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment of cholestatic jaundice are crucial to prevent potential complications and to restore liver function and overall health.
