Jaundice is the yellowing of the skin, whites of the eyes, and mucous membranes caused by a build-up of bilirubin in the blood. It is a symptom, not a disease in itself. The underlying cause can range from mild and self-resolving to serious and requiring urgent treatment.
Why Does Jaundice Happen?
Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. Normally the liver processes and excretes it in bile. Jaundice occurs when:
- The liver is damaged and cannot process bilirubin (hepatitis, cirrhosis, drug toxicity)
- The bile duct is blocked and bilirubin backs up (gallstones, bile duct cancer, pancreatic cancer)
- Too many red blood cells are breaking down (blood disorders)
Associated Symptoms
- Dark urine (tea or cola coloured)
- Pale or clay-coloured stools
- Itching (more common in obstructive jaundice)
- Abdominal pain
- Fever and chills (if infection is present)
- Weight loss
The pattern of symptoms helps identify the likely cause.
When Is Jaundice Urgent?
Seek immediate care if jaundice appears alongside:
- High fever and rigors (may indicate cholangitis, a bile duct infection -- a medical emergency)
- Severe abdominal pain
- Confusion or drowsiness
- Rapid worsening over days
- Known liver disease with sudden deterioration
Diagnosis
Evaluation includes:
- Liver function tests (bilirubin, ALT, AST, ALP, GGT)
- Ultrasound of the abdomen
- CT scan or MRCP for bile duct assessment
- Viral hepatitis serology
- Further tests based on findings