In the context of cholestatic disorders, what does "retained bile acids" refer to?

Retained bile acids refer to the accumulation of bile acids within the body, particularly in the circulation, due to impaired excretion. In cholestatic disorders, there is a disruption in the flow of bile, which can occur for various reasons including blockage of the bile ducts or problems with bile formation in the liver. When bile cannot flow properly, bile acids that are produced in the liver become trapped, leading to excess levels of these acids in the blood.

This condition is clinically significant because elevated bile acids can lead to various complications, including liver damage and systemic effects. The presence of excess bile acids in the bloodstream indicates that the normal enterohepatic circulation of bile acids is disrupted. Thus, the association of "retained bile acids" with the excess presence in the blood accurately describes the pathophysiological state commonly seen in cholestatic liver diseases.