Jaundice is a medical condition characterized by yellow discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and whites of the eyes (sclera) due to elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood. When there is an excessive breakdown of red blood cells, liver dysfunction, or obstruction of bile flow, bilirubin can accumulate in the bloodstream, leading to jaundice. Jaundice may be a symptom of various underlying medical conditions, including liver disease (such as hepatitis or cirrhosis), bile duct obstruction (such as gallstones or pancreatic cancer), hemolytic disorders (such as sickle cell disease or autoimmune hemolytic anemia), or newborn jaundice (a temporary condition in newborns due to immature liver function). In addition to yellowing of the skin and eyes, symptoms of jaundice may include dark urine, pale stools, itching, abdominal pain, fatigue, and nausea.
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