Jaundice

Christopher Hobbs:

“Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes by the bile pigment bilirubin. It often accompanies and is a symptom of liver diseases such as infectious hepatitis. The urine can also turn dark yellow or even orange, and the feces can become light clay colored.”

Etiologic and Other Factors

1. Pre-hepatic causes:
   • Increased breakdown of red blood cells (e.g., hemolytic anemia, malaria, sickle cell disease).
2. Hepatic causes:
   • Liver diseases (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver, alcoholic liver disease).
   • Genetic disorders affecting liver enzymes (e.g., Gilbert’s syndrome, Crigler-Najjar syndrome).
3. Post-hepatic causes:
   • Obstruction in bile flow (e.g., gallstones, tumors, bile duct strictures).
4. Neonatal jaundice:
   • Common in newborns due to immature liver function, but may be due to underlying issues like Rh incompatibility or infections.
5. Drug-induced jaundice:
   • Caused by medications that affect the liver (e.g., acetaminophen overdose, certain antibiotics).

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek medical attention if you notice any of the following:

• Severe yellowing of the skin and eyes.
• Dark urine and pale stools, indicating bile flow obstruction.
• Severe itching, abdominal pain, or swelling.
• Symptoms of acute illness, such as fever, nausea, vomiting, or confusion.
• Jaundice accompanied by unintentional weight loss.
• Occurs in newborns, especially within the first 24 hours of life or if prolonged.
• Underlying chronic conditions, such as hepatitis or alcoholism.