Alternative Names
Intrahepatic cholestasis; Extrahepatic cholestasis
Definition of Cholestasis
Cholestasis is any condition in which the flow of bile from the liver is blocked.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
There are many causes of cholestasis.
Signs and tests
Blood tests may show higher than normal levels of and alkaline phosphatase.
Treatment
The underlying cause of cholestasis must be treated.
Expectations (prognosis)
How well a person does depends on the disease causing the condition. Stones in the common bile duct usually can be removed, curing the cholestasis.
Review
David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc., and George F Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, California. – 5/23/2010
