Obstructive jaundice is a condition characterized by the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood due to an obstruction in the bile ducts. The bile ducts are responsible for transporting bile, a yellowish-green fluid produced by the liver, to the intestines to aid in digestion. When the flow of bile is hindered or blocked, bilirubin, which is a waste product of red blood cells, cannot be properly eliminated from the body, leading to its accumulation in the bloodstream. The most common cause of obstructive jaundice is the presence of a blockage in the bile ducts, usually caused by gallstones, tumors, or strictures (narrowing) of the ducts. This blockage prevents bile from flowing freely, resulting in its buildup in the liver and subsequently in the blood. As a result, individuals with obstructive jaundice may exhibit yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes, which is the hallmark symptom of jaundice.