Epeelzáródás

Epeelzáródás, also known as biliary obstruction or cholestasis, refers to a blockage in the bile ducts that prevents bile from flowing from the liver and gallbladder into the small intestine. Bile is a fluid produced by the liver that aids in digestion, particularly the breakdown of fats. When bile flow is impeded, it can lead to a buildup of bilirubin, a waste product of red blood cell breakdown, in the bloodstream and tissues.

This blockage can be caused by various factors. Gallstones are a common culprit, forming in the gallbladder and migrating into the bile ducts, where they can lodge and obstruct the passage of bile. Other causes include strictures or narrowing of the bile ducts, often resulting from inflammation or injury, tumors pressing on the ducts from outside, or infections within the ducts themselves, such as cholangitis.

Symptoms of epeelzáródás can vary depending on the severity and duration of the obstruction. They often include jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes due to bilirubin accumulation. Itching (pruritus) is also a common symptom. Other signs may include abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right quadrant, pale or clay-colored stools, dark urine, nausea, and vomiting. If left untreated, prolonged epeelzáródás can lead to serious complications, including liver damage and infection of the bile ducts. Diagnosis typically involves medical history, physical examination, blood tests to measure liver enzymes and bilirubin levels, and imaging studies like ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI. Treatment aims to relieve the obstruction and address the underlying cause.