Jaundice in Adults

Jaundice is a medical condition characterized by a yellowish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, caused by an accumulation of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. In adults, jaundice can be a symptom of various underlying conditions, ranging from mild to severe.

Causes of Jaundice in Adults

• Liver diseases: Conditions such as hepatitis A, B, and C, liver cirrhosis, and fatty liver disease can cause jaundice by impairing the liver's ability to process bilirubin.
• Bile duct obstruction: Blockage of the bile ducts, which carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine, can lead to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood. This can be caused by gallstones, tumors, or inflammation.
• Hemolytic anemia: Conditions that cause the breakdown of red blood cells, such as sickle cell disease or autoimmune hemolytic anemia, can lead to an increase in bilirubin production and jaundice.
• Pancreatic cancer: Tumors in the pancreas can obstruct the bile ducts and cause jaundice.
• Gallstones: Small, hard deposits that form in the gallbladder can block the bile ducts and lead to jaundice.

Symptoms of Jaundice in Adults

In addition to the characteristic yellowish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, adults with jaundice may experience:

• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Dark urine and pale stools
• Itching (pruritus)

Diagnosis of Jaundice in Adults

To diagnose jaundice, a healthcare provider will typically perform a physical examination, take a medical history, and order laboratory tests, including:

• Blood tests to measure bilirubin levels and liver function
• Imaging studies, such as ultrasound or CT scans, to visualize the liver and bile ducts
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to examine the bile ducts and pancreas

Treatment of Jaundice in Adults

Treatment for jaundice depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, treatment may involve:

• Medications to reduce inflammation or infection
• Surgery to remove gallstones or tumors
• Endoscopic procedures to widen narrowed bile ducts
• Liver transplantation in severe cases of liver disease

Complications of Jaundice in Adults

If left untreated, jaundice can lead to complications such as:

• Kernicterus, a condition that causes brain damage due to high levels of bilirubin
• Liver failure
• Pancreatitis
• Infections, such as cholangitis