Obstructive jaundice is a condition in which the bile produced by the liver has insufficient drainage into the digestive system. As a result, the bile backs up in the liver and the bloodstream. There are several possible causes of obstructive jaundice. Severe damage to the liver caused by alcoholism and drug use can lead to liver scarring that can obstruct the flow of bile. Congenital birth defects, such as intrahepatic bile duct paucity and biliary atresia, can also cause this condition. Although a liver biopsy is typically required to diagnose obstructive jaundice, according to the Path Consult website, there are several symptoms that may indicate the presence of bile obstruction.
Yellowed Skin
The most visibly apparent symptom of obstructive jaundice is the yellowing of the skin, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. As the bile backs up into the bloodstream, it infuses the skin tissues, mucus membranes and the eyes. This gives the skin and eyes a yellow color that is often seen in newborns during the first few days of life.
Dark Urine
Dark yellow urine is another common symptom of obstructive jaundice, according to Robert Porter, author of the "Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy." As the bile moves through the bloodstream, it is eventually processed by the kidneys. It is then flushed out of the body through the urinary tract as urobilenogen.
Pruritis
Pruritis, or systemic itching, may occur as a result of obstructive jaundice, according to Dr. Jurg Reichen, professor at Bern University. The itching is caused by salt compounds in the bile that collect in the dermis. Pruritis typically does not respond to topical treatments; however, some medications such as Cholestyramine and Actigall may help control itching. In severe cases, a biliary diversion, which redirects a portion of the bile from the liver to the intestine, or an ostomy pouch may be necessary to relieve this condition.
Pale Stool
People with obstructive jaundice typically have stools that are pale in color, notes Porter. This is because less bile is present in the solid waste that has been processed by the digestive system.
References
- Path Consult: Paucity of Interlobular Bile Ducts
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Jaundice
- "Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy"; Robert S. Porter; 2006
- Bern University: Alagille's Syndrome; Dr. Jurg Reichen
