What Is Jaundice?
Jaundice is a yellow discoloration of the skin and the whites of the eyes (sclera). It occurs when bilirubin builds up in the bloodstream.
Jaundice is not a disease by itself. It is a sign that something is wrong, usually involving the liver, red blood cells, or bile ducts.
What Is Bilirubin?
Bilirubin is a yellow pigment formed when red blood cells break down.
- Old red blood cells are destroyed
- Hemoglobin becomes unconjugated bilirubin
- The liver converts it into conjugated bilirubin
- It is excreted through bile
If this process fails, bilirubin accumulates and causes jaundice.
Causes of Jaundice
1. Pre-Hepatic (Before the Liver)
- Hemolytic anemia
- Infections
- Blood disorders
2. Hepatic (Liver Damage)
- Viral hepatitis (A, B, C)
- Fatty liver disease
- Alcohol-related liver injury
- Cirrhosis
3. Post-Hepatic (Obstructive)
- Gallstones
- Bile duct blockage
- Pancreatic tumors
Symptoms
- Yellow skin and eyes
- Dark urine
- Pale stools
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Itching
Diagnosis
- Total bilirubin test
- Direct and indirect bilirubin
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST, ALP)
- Ultrasound imaging
Treatment
Treatment depends on the underlying cause:
- Antibiotics for infections
- Surgery for bile duct obstruction
- Medical management for hepatitis
- Alcohol cessation if alcohol-related
Complications
- Brain damage in severe cases (especially newborns)
- Liver failure
- Serious infections
Neonatal Jaundice
Common in newborns due to immature liver function.
- Appears 2–3 days after birth
- Usually resolves within 1–2 weeks
- Severe cases require phototherapy
Prevention
- Vaccination against hepatitis
- Avoid excessive alcohol
- Maintain healthy weight
- Practice food hygiene
- Regular health check-ups
