Bile duct disorders are conditions and diseases that affect the bile ducts, often resulting in bile buildup in the liver, which may lead to serious liver disease such as cirrhosis.

There are many different types of bile duct disorders. Some are present at birth, such as biliary atresia and Alagille syndrome. Others develop in adulthood, such as primary biliary cirrhosis, biliary dyskinesia and bile duct cancer.

The cause of many bile duct disorders is unknown. Some types, such as biliary stricture and biliary dyskinesia, develop after surgery. Women are more affected by gallstones that block bile ducts and primary biliary cirrhosis. Men are more affected by primary sclerosing cholangitis.

Signs and symptoms of bile duct disorders may vary according to the type of disorder. However, signs and symptoms common to many bile duct disorders include jaundice, abdominal pain and itching.

Bile duct disorders may be diagnosed by a physician during a physical examination that includes a medical history and list of medications. Tests that may be performed include blood tests, ultrasound and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).

Treatment of bile duct disorders varies according to the type of disorder. It may include antibiotics to treat infection, medications to relieve itching or surgery. Patients with liver failure are sometimes treated with liver transplantation.

Many types of bile duct disorders cannot be prevented. Bile duct blockage due to gallstones may be prevented by having the gallbladder removed.