Jaundice is a visible yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes caused by higher levels of bilirubin in the body. It is a sign, not a diagnosis, and can arise from different processes affecting blood, liver cells, or the bile ducts. This page summarizes common causes, related symptoms, when urgent assessment may be needed, and which specialties usually evaluate jaundice.
Jaundice is the clinical appearance of yellow discoloration due to bilirubin accumulation. Bilirubin is produced when red blood cells break down and is normally processed by the liver and excreted in bile. Interruptions or overloads in production, liver processing, or bile outflow can all lead to jaundice, so it points to a range of possible underlying issues rather than a single disease.
Causes are often organized into three categories: pre-hepatic (excess red blood cell breakdown), hepatic (impaired liver cell function), and post-hepatic (obstruction of bile flow). Examples include hemolytic conditions, viral or toxic liver injury, gallstones, and some tumors or congenital metabolic disorders. Age, recent illnesses, medications, and medical history guide the likely causes.
Jaundice may be accompanied by dark urine, pale stools, generalized itching, fatigue, loss of appetite or abdominal pain. Seek urgent medical evaluation if jaundice appears suddenly and is associated with high fever, severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, confusion or rapid deterioration. In such cases, contact emergency services or go to an emergency department.
Primary evaluation usually begins with a primary care clinician or urgent care and includes a physical exam, blood tests (liver panels, total and direct bilirubin, blood counts) and often ultrasound imaging. Depending on results, referrals may be made to Gastroenterology/Hepatology, Infectious Diseases, General Surgery, or Pediatrics for newborns and infants.
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