Question

a patient with gallstones blocking the bile duct would be more likely to have elevated levels of ______________ in the blood.
a) unconjugated bilirubin
b) hemoglobin
c) conjugated bilirubin
d) red blood cells

Explanation:

When gallstones block the bile duct, conjugated bilirubin, which is produced in the liver and normally excreted into the bile, cannot flow into the intestine and instead backs - up into the bloodstream, leading to elevated levels. Unconjugated bilirubin is not directly affected by bile - duct obstruction. Hemoglobin and red blood cells are not directly related to bile - duct blockage in this context.

Answer:

c) Conjugated bilirubin