What condition is characterized by an arrested flow of bile, leading to poor digestion?

Cholestasia is characterized by an impaired or arrested flow of bile from the liver to the duodenum, which disrupts the digestion and absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins. When bile flow is obstructed or reduced, it leads to the accumulation of bile acids and bilirubin in the liver and bloodstream, resulting in symptoms such as jaundice, pruritus (itching), and fat malabsorption.

This condition directly affects the digestive process because bile is essential for emulsifying fats, allowing for their proper digestion and absorption in the intestines. Without adequate bile flow, the digestion of dietary fats becomes significantly compromised, leading to nutritional deficiencies.

The other conditions listed do not primarily focus on the flow of bile or are indicative of bile's effects on digestion. For instance, cholecystitis refers to inflammation of the gallbladder, hepatitis involves liver inflammation often due to viral infection or alcohol, and pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas that affects its enzymatic function but not primarily bile flow. Thus, cholestasia is the correct answer as it specifically involves arrested bile flow, impacting digestion.