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How is bilirubin connected to jaundice in pancreatic cancer?

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An anatomical illustration of the human pancreas shows its location near the stomach and intestines, a detailed cross-section highlighting ducts and the islet of Langerhans, and an inset of pancreatic tissue histology with labeled alpha, beta, and delta cells. — pancreatic cancer The human pancreas is composed of two main types of tissue: acinar cells and islets of Langerhans. The acinar cells produce digestive enzymes, which are secreted into tiny ducts that feed into the pancreatic duct. Islets of Langerhans are clusters of cells that secrete hormones such as insulin and glucagon directly into a capillary network, which also joins the pancreatic duct.

In the context of pancreatic cancer, jaundice is a form of cholestatic (or obstructive) jaundice. This condition occurs when a growing pancreatic tumor physically blocks the common bile duct.123

Because the bile duct is obstructed, the body is unable to transport bilirubin through the biliary tract as it normally would. This blockage causes bilirubin to accumulate in the bloodstream. When the level of bilirubin in the blood rises significantly above normal, it manifests as jaundice—a characteristic yellowing of the skin and the sclera of the eyes. This symptom is particularly frequent when the cancer involves the head of the pancreas.312