General Information About Jaundice
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the accumulation of a yellow/orange substance called 'bilirubin', which is produced by the breakdown of old red blood cells, in the blood and tissues because it cannot be excreted from the body.
1. Red blood cells breaking down at an excessive rate (Hemolytic anemia).
2. The liver being diseased (Hepatitis, Cirrhosis) and unable to process bilirubin.
3. Processed bilirubin being unable to flow into the intestine due to a stone or tumor in the bile ducts (Obstructive jaundice).
In newborn babies, it is normal to see jaundice in the first few days because the liver is not yet fully mature (physiological jaundice), and it goes away with light therapy (phototherapy). However, jaundice in adults is always a sign of a serious problem (pathology).
Yellowing of the skin and especially the white part of the eyes (sclera). If it is caused by an obstruction; symptoms include urine darkening to a cola/tea color, stool becoming white/cream-colored like glazier's putty, and severe itching all over the body.
The skin of those who consume excessive carotene (carrots, pumpkins) may turn yellow/orange (carotenemia). However, in this case, the whites of the eyes do not turn yellow, they remain white. In true jaundice, the whites of the eyes are always yellow.
Direct and indirect bilirubin, along with AST/ALT liver enzymes, are measured in the blood, and the bile ducts are examined with Ultrasound/MRI. Treatment depends on the cause: Antiviral medications for hepatitis, or stone removal via ERCP if there is a gallstone obstruction.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
