What Does Jaundice Indicate?

Jaundice is a condition in which the skin, whites of the eyes and mucous membranes turn yellow because of a high level of bilirubin, a yellow-orange bile pigment. Jaundice has many causes, including hepatitis, gallstones and tumors. In adults, jaundice usually doesn't need to be treated.

Why do you get jaundice?

Jaundice happens when there's too much bilirubin, a yellow-orange substance, in your blood. It's found in your red blood cells. When those cells die, the liver filters it from the bloodstream. But if something's wrong and your liver can't keep up, bilirubin builds up and can cause your skin to look yellow.

Is jaundice a serious problem?

If damage to the liver is severe, jaundice may be accompanied by serious problems, such as deterioration of brain function and a tendency to bleed or bruise. Acute viral hepatitis is a common cause of jaundice, particularly in young and otherwise healthy people.