Jaundice

• Jaundice is a condition caused by an excess of bile pigment – bilirubin – within the body
• Bilirubin is produced as part of the natural breakdown of haemoglobin by the liver
• Normally, bilirubin is conjugated to other chemicals and then secreted it in bile
• When there is an excess of bilirubin, it may leak out into surrounding tissue fluids
• Jaundice may be caused by any condition which impairs the natural breakdown of red blood cells, including: liver disease, obstruction of the gallbladder, damage to red blood cells
• The symptoms of jaundice include yellowish discoloration of the skin and sclera, itchiness, pale stool, and darkened urine