Why are my stools white? part 2

There are a number of conditions in infants where there is abnormal metabolism of bile. In most cases, the liver disorder can be corrected.

Sclerosing cholangitis occurs in patients with ulcerative colitis or Crohn disease. In these two disorders, the bile ducts gradually get damaged and bile can no longer be excreted into the bowel. The condition is difficult to treat.

Strictures (narrowing) of the bile ducts can occur from surgical trauma and can lead to poor excretion of bile. This may occur after removal of a gall bladder and the surgeon inadvertently damages the bile duct. Besides seeking medical help, a visit to a lawyer would not be a bad idea if this ever happens.

There are some rare disorders of the bile duct where the ducts become large and cystic like but are unable to function normally

In some cases, cancers of the pancreas, liver or gall bladder can obstruct the bile duct and cause stools to turn white.

A few medications like some anta acids and anti fungal drugs may transiently turn stools white. When the medications are stopped, the stools revert back to normal color.

In any situation where stools turn white, a visit to the health care worker is highly recommended. The doctor will most like get a history, physical and probably get a few radiological tests to assess the liver and bile duct. The treatment depends on the cause.

Why are my stools white

In general, stools range in color from dark grey to brown. Two colors, which are considered abnormal, are black or white stools. All other colors are of not much importance. When an individual has white stools at any age, this is a cause for concern.

The brown color of stools is due to a pigment released from the liver, known as bilirubin. When there is abnormal liver function, bilirubin is no longer produced and stools turn white.

Bile is an important fluid in the body. It is secreted by the liver and stored in the gall bladder. Bile plays an important role in the absorption of fats and related products. When the liver fails to produce bile or if the bile fails to be released from the liver, then stools will turn white.

The most common liver disorders that can cause stools to become white include:

Hepatitis. Liver infections by viruses can cause hepatitis. In particular, hepatitis B and C are of concern and can cause white pale stools.

Biliary atresia is a condition where the ducts that secret bile are absent or damaged. In such cases, bile is unable to pass from the liver into the bowel. Biliary atresia is seen at birth.

Gallstones can sometimes impinge on the ducts that carry bile. However, gallstones can be removed and the condition can be reversed.