Definition of Cholestasis

Cholestasis: a decrease or blockage in the flow of bile. Bile is a fluid produced by the liver that travels through ducts to enter the digestive system in the small intestine. Diseases of the liver, pancreas, or of the bile ducts themselves can all cause cholestasis. Symptoms of cholestasis include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes look yellow), dark urine, itching, and light-colored stool.