Final answer:
Prolonged biliary colic and jaundice are often caused by gallstones blocking the bile ducts, leading to obstructive jaundice. This condition results in a build-up of conjugated bilirubin in the blood, giving the skin and eyes a yellowish hue. Various types of jaundice and conditions like cholangitis or pancreatitis may be related to the underlying issue.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Prolonged Biliary Colic and Jaundice
Prolonged biliary colic and jaundice may be symptomatic of an underlying issue with bile excretion often associated with gallstones blocking the bile ducts. This condition is characterized by the obstruction of the hepatic or common bile ducts, causing a build-up of conjugated bilirubin. The excess bilirubin enters the bloodstream, leading to jaundice, which is recognizable by the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, as depicted in Figure 12.7.4. When gallstones are present, they can impede the flow of bile, which results not only in pain but also in the occurrence of jaundice due to the accumulation of bilirubin.
There are several types of jaundice, including:
- Haemolytic or prehepatic jaundice, which arises from excessive breakdown of red blood cells.
- Infective or hepatic jaundice, associated with liver damage from various causes such as alcoholism or infections.
- Obstructive or post-hepatic jaundice, which is directly related to the biliary tree obstruction.
Evaluation of jaundice often includes the Van Den Bergh test and monitoring symptoms such as fever, malaise, or abdominal pain that may suggest related complications like cholangitis, pancreatitis, or cholecystitis. Chronic conditions such as primary sclerosing cholangitis, primary biliary cirrhosis, or Gilbert's syndrome may also play a role in jaundice manifestation.