Clinicopathological Spectrum of Obstructive Jaundice in a Tertiary Care Centre: A Prospective Study

Background: Jaundice is the yellowish discoloration of skin and mucous membranes due to high levels of bilirubin.Amongst the different types of jaundice, obstructive/surgical jaundice poses a great challenge due to varied presentation and high morbidity and mortality.The present study was conducted to assess the clinicopathological spectrum of obstructive jaundice.Methods: This cross-sectional, observational study was conducted on patients aged more than 18 years and diagnosed with obstructive jaundice.Demographic characteristics and relevant histories were noted.The findings of the laboratory investigations were recorded.Results: It was noted that the majority of the patients belonged to the age group of 61-70 years (44.40%).Females (52.78%) were affected more than males.Abnormal/clay coloured stool and yellowish discoloration of the skin and sclera were the commonest presenting symptoms reported by 88.90% and 86.10% of patients, respectively, followed by pain in the abdomen (77.80%) and pruritus (77.80%).All patients had raised serum bilirubin levels and decreased serum proteins.Liver enzymes were increased in the majority of the patients. Conclusion:Obstructive jaundice generally affects the elderly, with a female preponderance.Abnormal/clay-coloured stools, yellowish discoloration of skin and sclera, pain in the abdomen, and pruritus are the most commonly reported presenting symptoms.Laboratory tests show deranged liver function tests and decreased serum protein levels.