Cholestasis is a medical condition wherein the flow of bile into the duodenum of the small intestine is obstructed. The obstruction is likely to cause an abnormal build-up of lipids and bile salts in the blood stream, since they cannot be removed from the body. Some of the symptoms of cholestasis include darkening of the urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin, and itching. Its possible complications include weakening of the bones, diarrhea, and organ failure. There are two types of cholestasis: intrahepatic and extrahepatic.

Intrahepatic cholestasis refers to the obstruction in the flow of bile that occurs within the liver. It is characterized by medical conditions like hepatitis or by extensive obstruction of small ducts. Extrahepatic cholestasis, on the other hand, is a blockage outside the liver. It can occur as a complication of surgery, infection that destroys tissues, or as a result of a serious injury. It can also be caused by tumors or stones in the bile duct, cysts, or thinning of the bile duct.

Some conditions that lead to cholestasis are unique to women. Pregnancy heightens the sensitivity of the bile ducts to estrogen, which may cause cholestasis of pregnancy. It can develop during the second or third semester of the pregnancy, and often causes itching. Treatment usually involves monitoring the health of the baby and the use of topical anti-itch medication. A woman may also acquire the disease while using birth control pills; the condition typically ceases after the pills are stopped.

A medical professional will usually order blood tests and diagnostic imaging such as computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ultrasound of the abdomen to diagnose cholestasis. Treatment for this condition typically depends on the cause. Infections are usually treated with antibiotics. The presence of stones will likely be addressed through surgery. Stents may be inserted in the narrowed or blocked portion of the bile duct to restore the flow of bile.

Cholestasis can usually be prevented. It is advisable for a person to be vaccinated for hepatitis A and hepatitis B, especially if he or she is at risk of having the disease. The reuse of needles for injection should also be avoided.