Jaundice

What Is Jaundice?

Jaundice is a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes, caused by an elevated level of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment formed during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. When the liver cannot effectively process and eliminate bilirubin, it builds up in the body, leading to jaundice.

Jaundice is not a disease itself, but a symptom of an underlying condition, often related to the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas.

Types of Jaundice

Pre-Hepatic Jaundice

Occurs before bilirubin reaches the liver. Caused by excessive breakdown of red blood cells.

Causes:

Hemolytic anemia
Sickle cell disease
Malaria
Thalassemia

2. Hepatic (Intrahepatic) Jaundice

Occurs due to liver dysfunction—the liver cannot properly process bilirubin.

Causes:

Hepatitis (viral, alcoholic, autoimmune)
Liver cirrhosis
Fatty liver disease
Liver cancer
Genetic disorders (e.g., Gilbert’s syndrome)

3. Post-Hepatic (Obstructive) Jaundice

Caused by blockage in the bile ducts, preventing bilirubin from being excreted.

Causes:

Gallstones
Pancreatic or bile duct tumors
Biliary atresia (in infants)
Infections or strictures in the bile ducts

Common Symptoms

Yellowing of the skin and eyes
Dark urine
Pale or clay-colored stools
Fatigue and weakness
Nausea or vomiting
Abdominal pain (especially in the upper right quadrant)
Itchy skin
Loss of appetite
Fever (in some cases)

Note: In newborns, jaundice usually appears within the first few days after birth and is often harmless—but it should always be evaluated.

Causes of Jaundice in Different Age Groups

In Adults:

Liver diseases (hepatitis, cirrhosis)
Alcohol abuse
Gallstones
Pancreatic cancer
Drug-induced liver injury (e.g., from acetaminophen, antibiotics)

In Newborns:

Physiological jaundice (common and temporary)
Breast milk jaundice
Blood group incompatibility (Rh or ABO incompatibility)
Premature birth
Infections or liver enzyme deficiencies

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves identifying the underlying cause of jaundice:

Medical history and physical exam
Blood tests: Liver function tests (LFTs), bilirubin levels, complete blood count (CBC), viral markers
Urine and stool tests
Imaging tests: Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI (to detect blockages or liver damage)
Liver biopsy: In certain chronic liver conditions

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause:

Lifestyle and Supportive Care

Rest, hydration, and a liver-friendly diet
Avoiding alcohol and hepatotoxic medications

2. Medications

Antivirals for viral hepatitis
Corticosteroids or immunosuppressants for autoimmune hepatitis
Cholestyramine for itch relief in obstructive jaundice

3. Surgical or Interventional Procedures

ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) to remove gallstones or stents in bile ducts
Cholecystectomy for gallbladder removal
Tumor removal or chemotherapy in cancer-related jaundice

4. Treatment in Newborns

Phototherapy (light treatment to break down bilirubin)
Exchange transfusion in severe cases
Monitoring and follow-up for breastfeeding-associated jaundice

Complications (If Untreated)

Liver failure
Brain damage (kernicterus) in infants with severe jaundice
Chronic liver disease or cirrhosis
Sepsis or life-threatening infections

When to See a Doctor

Seek immediate medical attention if you or your child experience:

Persistent yellowing of skin or eyes
Abdominal pain or swelling
High fever
Vomiting or confusion
Extremely dark urine or pale stools
Newborn jaundice lasting beyond two weeks

Why Choose Aster Hospitals for Jaundice and Liver Care?

Aster Hospitals offers comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for jaundice and related liver conditions through a team of experienced gastroenterologists and hepatologists. We utilize advanced liver function testing and imaging for accurate and timely diagnosis. Our expertise spans care for all age groups, including specialized neonatal and pediatric liver services. Whether the cause is infectious, genetic, or obstructive, we provide targeted treatment with access to endoscopic and surgical interventions when necessary. Our holistic approach includes nutritional and lifestyle counseling to support long-term liver health. At Aster, we are committed to delivering personalized care and ensuring lifelong liver wellness for every patient.