Why does pancreatic cancer cause jaundice?

Bile is made by the liver and travels through bile ducts to the intestine. It contains bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced as the body processes old red blood cells. A growth near the part of the pancreas closest to the bile duct can narrow or block that passage. Bilirubin then builds up in the bloodstream, which can yellow the eyes and skin, darken urine, pale stools, and cause itching.

Jaundice is a very common presentation of Pancreatic Cancer. Jaundice can also result from gallstones, liver disease, infections, medicines, and other conditions, so it needs assessment rather than self-diagnosis.

Contact a clinician promptly if you notice yellowing of the eyes or skin. They may ask about urine and stool colour, itching, pain, fever, appetite, and weight change, then examine you and arrange blood tests or imaging if appropriate. Avoid starting supplements or herbal remedies to treat jaundice without advice, because some products can affect the liver or interact with medicines.

Seek urgent medical care if jaundice occurs with fever or chills, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, confusion, marked drowsiness, or an inability to keep fluids down. These symptoms may signal a blockage or infection that needs timely treatment.

Ask what may be causing the jaundice, which tests are needed to look at the liver and bile ducts, and how soon results will be available. If there is a blockage, ask whether a procedure might be needed to restore bile drainage and how itching or nausea can be managed.