Description
Jaundice is a condition that is characterized by the yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes due to an accumulation of bilirubin, a yellowish pigment that is produced by the breakdown of red blood cells. Jaundice can occur in individuals of all ages, and it is typically classified into three main types based on the underlying cause:
- Prehepatic jaundice: This type of jaundice is caused by an increase in the production of bilirubin, such as in cases of hemolytic anemia (a condition in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be replaced).
- Hepatic jaundice: This type of jaundice is caused by a problem in the liver, such as liver disease or damage, which prevents the liver from properly processing and excreting bilirubin.
- Posthepatic jaundice: This type of jaundice is caused by a blockage in the bile ducts, which prevents bilirubin from being properly excreted from the body. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including gallstones, pancreatic cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease.
In addition to the three main types of jaundice, there is also a fourth type called neonatal jaundice, which occurs in newborns due to an immature liver that is not yet able to properly process bilirubin. This is a common and usually benign condition that typically resolves on its own within a few days.
