Jaundice is a common manifestation of various chronic liver diseases, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. It is characterized by the yellow discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and sclerae (the white part of the eyes) due to elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood. Our Gastroenterology Department specializes in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of jaundice associated with chronic liver diseases, aiming to identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate interventions to improve patient outcomes.

Symptoms:

Jaundice is often accompanied by other symptoms related to liver dysfunction, such as fatigue, weakness, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dark urine, pale stools, itching (pruritus), and swelling of the abdomen or legs (edema). The severity of jaundice and associated symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause and the extent of liver damage.

Diagnosis:

Diagnosing the underlying cause of jaundice involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, blood tests to assess liver function and measure bilirubin levels, imaging studies (such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI) to evaluate liver structure and detect any abnormalities, and occasionally, liver biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of liver disease.

Treatment:

Treatment for jaundice focuses on addressing the underlying chronic liver disease and managing symptoms to improve patient comfort and quality of life. Depending on the specific cause of jaundice, treatment strategies may include antiviral medications for viral hepatitis, immunosuppressive therapy for autoimmune liver diseases, lifestyle modifications (such as dietary changes and alcohol cessation) for alcoholic liver disease, and supportive care to relieve symptoms such as itching and fatigue.: In addition to targeting the underlying cause of jaundice, supportive measures may be necessary to support liver function and prevent complications. These may include nutritional support, hydration, management of electrolyte imbalances, monitoring for signs of liver failure, and close medical supervision to adjust treatment as needed. Jaundice associated with chronic liver diseases can lead to various complications, including liver failure, hepatic encephalopathy (confusion and altered mental status due to impaired liver function), coagulopathy (bleeding disorders), ascites (abdominal fluid accumulation), and hepatorenal syndrome (kidney dysfunction). Early detection, prompt intervention, and ongoing management are essential to prevent or minimize these complications and improve patient outcomes.

 

What causes jaundice in chronic liver diseases?

Jaundice in chronic liver diseases results from the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood due to impaired liver function or obstruction of bile flow. Common causes include hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and biliary obstruction.

 

What are the symptoms of jaundice?

Symptoms of jaundice may include yellow discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and sclerae, along with fatigue, weakness, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, dark urine, pale stools, itching, and swelling of the abdomen or legs.

 

How is the cause of jaundice diagnosed?

Diagnosing the underlying cause of jaundice involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies, and sometimes, liver biopsy to evaluate liver function, assess for liver damage, and confirm the diagnosis.

 

What are the treatment options for jaundice associated with chronic liver diseases?

Treatment for jaundice focuses on addressing the underlying chronic liver disease and managing symptoms. Treatment strategies may include antiviral medications for viral hepatitis, immunosuppressive therapy for autoimmune liver diseases, lifestyle modifications for alcoholic liver disease, and supportive care to relieve symptoms such as itching and fatigue.