What is Jaundice (Icterus)? Symptoms, Causes and Treatment of Jaundice
Jaundice (icterus) is a symptom that occurs with yellowing of the skin, the whites of the eyes and the inside of the mouth. This is due to the increase in the level of a substance called bilirubin in the blood. Normally, bilirubin is processed in the liver and excreted in bile. If production increases, the liver is not functioning well, or the bile ducts are blocked, bilirubin rises and jaundice occurs. Jaundice can sometimes be a sign of serious illnesses, so a doctor's checkup is necessary.
What is Jaundice (Icterus)?
Jaundice is the yellowing of tissues due to increased bilirubin in the blood. In healthy individuals, bilirubin is below 1 mg/dL. Yellowing of the whites of the eyes is most often noticed above 3 mg/dL.
What are the Types of Jaundice?
There are three main groups depending on where the problem is:
- Prehepatic: Red blood cells are broken down more than normal, bilirubin production increases.
- Intrahepatic: Liver cells become diseased (e.g., hepatitis, alcohol, certain medications) and cannot process bilirubin well.
- Post-hepatic (obstructive): Bile ducts are blocked due to reasons such as stones, stenosis or tumor.
We can also distinguish between conjugated and unconjugated jaundice based on the type of bilirubin. (It's not necessary to know the details; your doctor will evaluate it.)
What Causes Jaundice?
Frequent causes of jaundice may be as follows:
- Hepatitis A, B, C
- Liver problems due to alcohol
- Damage due to medication (e.g. excessive use of paracetamol)
- Gallstones, bile duct strictures, or pancreatic/biliary tract tumors
- Excessive destruction due to anemia (hemolysis)
- Resolution of large bruises (hematomas)
What are the Symptoms of Jaundice?
Jaundice (icterus) is usually first noticed as yellowing of the whites of the eyes and skin. This may be accompanied by complaints such as changes in urine and stool color and general weakness. The main symptoms are:
- Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
- Dark urine, pale stools
- Itching, fatigue, abdominal pain, fever/chills, loss of appetite and weight loss
The severity of symptoms and how quickly they begin depends on the cause.
What are the Diagnostic Methods for Jaundice?
When jaundice is detected, the aim is to determine the source of elevated bilirubin. The diagnostic process progresses step by step with blood tests and imaging methods; further examinations are added when necessary:
- Blood tests: Total bilirubin, its subtypes (conjugated/unconjugated), liver enzymes, and other relevant tests
- Imaging: Ultrasound first, CT if necessary; if unclear, further examinations or liver biopsy
As a result, it is understood whether jaundice is caused by pre-, intra- or post-hepatic involvement.
How is Jaundice Treated?
There is no single “cure” for jaundice; the cause is treated.
- Endoscopic/surgical interventions if there is an obstruction
- Appropriate treatment and monitoring for viral hepatitis
- Supportive treatments for complaints such as itching
Jaundice will regress as the cause is resolved.
How to Prevent Jaundice? What are the Ways of Protection?
Although not every cause can be prevented, the following reduce the risk:
- Hepatitis vaccines (if appropriate)
- Safe sex life, sterile needle use
- Limiting alcohol, remaining at a healthy weight
- Avoiding herbal/alternative products that are not recommended by a doctor
What is Jaundice in Babies?
Neonatal jaundice is very common and most often harmless. Because the baby's liver is not fully mature, bilirubin accumulates. In most cases, jaundice appears within the first week.
How to Treat Jaundice in Babies?
It resolves spontaneously in many babies. If necessary, phototherapy (light therapy) is applied. In a small number of babies, additional treatment may be required depending on the cause.
What are the Causes of Neonatal Jaundice?
The most common cause is physiological jaundice (liver is not yet fully mature). Additionally, hemolysis, infections, and more rarely, structural/metabolic problems may occur. Close monitoring is important as very high bilirubin levels may, although rare, lead to the risk of kernicterus.
What are the symptoms of neonatal jaundice?
- Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
- A tendency to sleep and a decrease in breastfeeding may be observed
If jaundice is observed, a doctor's examination is necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jaundice
Which department/doctor to go for jaundice?
If there are any signs of jaundice, consult a doctor without wasting time. A healthcare professional should perform the evaluation. (Gastroenterology is usually involved in cases related to the digestive system.)
Is jaundice fatal?
Jaundice is a symptom. Whether it is dangerous or not depends on the cause. For example, liver failure or obstruction can have serious consequences if left untreated; temporary/treatable causes can also be completely cured.
How is jaundice noticed?
The most obvious sign is yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. This may be accompanied by dark urine, pale colored stools, and itching. Bilirubin is measured by blood tests for a definitive diagnosis.
Is jaundice contagious?
Jaundice itself is not contagious. However, some causes, such as hepatitis A/B/C, are contagious. Vaccination and protection are important.
Does stress cause jaundice?
Stress alone is not considered a cause of jaundice. Jaundice usually occurs due to biological causes such as hepatitis, medication, alcohol, hemolysis or biliary obstruction.
What is the range of bilirubin levels in jaundice?
In most individuals, bilirubin is below 1 mg/dL. Yellowing of the eyes is most often noticed above 3 mg/dL.
What is the most common type of jaundice in babies?
The most common is physiological (neonatal) jaundice. In most babies, it goes away on its own or improves with phototherapy.
Is jaundice dangerous for babies?
In most babies, it is mild and not dangerous. However, if bilirubin gets too high, it requires immediate evaluation because it can cause brain damage.
How many days does jaundice last?
The duration depends on the cause. Iın adults, jaundice usually decreases when the underlying issue is treated. Most cases of jaundice in neonatals resolve spontaneously or with phototherapy in a short time.