ADAM Health Encyclopedia

Jaundice-associated conditions

Definition

Jaundice-associated conditions are diseases or conditions that cause yellow skin (jaundice).

Alternative Names

Causes

Jaundice is a symptom of liver and gallbladder disorders. The skin and the eyes become yellow due to the buildup of bilirubin in the skin.

Jaundice-associated conditions include:

• Autoimmune hepatitis
• Biliary atresia
• Blockage of the bile ducts (by infection, tumor, biliary stricture or gallstones)
• Cirrhosis
• Congenital disorders of bilirubin metabolism
• Drug-induced cholestasis (bile pools in the liver because of the effects of drugs)
• Drug-induced hepatitis
• Dubin-Johnson syndrome
• Gilbert disease
• Hemolytic anemia
• Ischemic hepatitis (jaundice caused by reduced oxygen or blood flow to the liver)
• Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (bile pools in the liver)
• Malaria
• Newborn jaundice
• Pancreatic carcinoma
• Primary biliary cirrhosis
• Viral hepatitis (hepatitis A, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, hepatitis D, and hepatitis E)

Symptoms

• Yellow skin
• Yellow sclera (the white part of the eyes)

Other symptoms depend on the specific disorder.

Exams and Tests

Physical examination will show jaundice and, possibly, liver swelling.

Specific tests vary, but may include liver function tests to determine how well the liver is working.

Treatment

All jaundice-associated conditions require medical diagnosis and treatment. In some cases, the only treatment needed may be observation, but ALWAYS consult with your health care provider.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The outcome varies.

Possible Complications

Complications vary, but can include life-threatening liver failure.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your health care provider if symptoms of jaundice develop.

Prevention

Prevention depends on the disorder that causes the jaundice.