What causes post-hepatic jaundice?

Post-hepatic jaundice is primarily caused by a blockage or obstruction in the bile duct. This condition occurs when the normal flow of bile, which contains bilirubin, is impeded after it has been processed by the liver. When there is an obstruction, bilirubin cannot be effectively transported from the liver to the intestine, leading to an accumulation of conjugated bilirubin in the bloodstream. This buildup results in the yellowing of the skin and eyes characteristic of jaundice.

Understanding the mechanism of post-hepatic jaundice highlights the importance of the bile ducts in bilirubin elimination. Conditions such as gallstones, strictures, or tumors can cause this obstruction, leading to elevated bilirubin levels in the blood. This is a crucial distinction, as post-hepatic jaundice specifically involves issues that occur after the liver’s processing of bilirubin, differentiating it from pre-hepatic jaundice caused by excessive breakdown of red blood cells or hepatic jaundice that results from liver dysfunction or inflammation.