Jaundice

Jaundice is a medical condition characterized by a yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes, and the whites of the eyes. This yellow coloration occurs due to an excess of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that is produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. When the liver cannot process bilirubin properly, it builds up in the blood, leading to jaundice.

Causes of Jaundice

Jaundice can be caused by a variety of conditions that affect the liver, bile ducts, or red blood cells:

Pre-Hepatic Causes (Before the Liver):

• Hemolytic Anemia: Rapid breakdown of red blood cells, leading to an excess of bilirubin.
• Sickle Cell Anemia: A genetic condition where red blood cells are abnormally shaped, leading to increased destruction and bilirubin production.
• Thalassemia: Another genetic disorder affecting red blood cell production, leading to hemolysis.

Hepatic Causes (Within the Liver):

• Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver, often due to viral infections (e.g., hepatitis A, B, or C), can impair bilirubin processing.
• Cirrhosis: Chronic liver disease leading to scarring of the liver tissue, affecting its ability to process bilirubin.
• Alcoholic Liver Disease: Liver damage due to excessive alcohol consumption.
• Liver Cancer: Can obstruct bile ducts or damage liver cells.
• Gilbert’s Syndrome: A genetic condition causing mild jaundice due to reduced bilirubin processing.

Post-Hepatic Causes (After the Liver):

• Gallstones: Stones that block the bile ducts can prevent bilirubin from being excreted.
• Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder, often associated with gallstones, can cause jaundice.
• Pancreatic Cancer: Tumors in the pancreas can obstruct the bile ducts.
• Biliary Strictures: Narrowing of the bile ducts can obstruct the flow of bile.

Symptoms of Jaundice

• Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes: The most noticeable symptom of jaundice.
• Dark Urine: Bilirubin in the urine can cause it to turn dark yellow or brown.
• Pale Stools: Lack of bilirubin in the intestines can lead to pale-colored stools.
• Itching: Excess bilirubin can cause itching.
• Fatigue and Weakness: Often associated with liver disease.
• Abdominal Pain: Particularly in the upper right quadrant, may indicate liver or gallbladder issues.
• Nausea and Vomiting: May accompany liver dysfunction.