Jaun

2003-05-01JaunpassGastlosen

Jaun

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Statthalterhaus Jaun Jul 2011

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Jaun-Kirche

Jaundice is a medical condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin, sclera (the white part of the eyes), and other mucous membranes due to an increase in the levels of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow compound that occurs in the normal catabolic pathway that breaks down heme in red blood cells. Normally, the liver processes bilirubin and then excretes it in bile. However, if this process is interrupted or if the liver is damaged, bilirubin can build up in the body and lead to jaundice.

Causes

Jaundice can be caused by several factors, which can be broadly classified into three categories: pre-hepatic, hepatic, and post-hepatic.

• Pre-hepatic jaundice is caused by conditions that lead to an increased rate of hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells), resulting in an increased production of bilirubin that the liver cannot adequately process. Examples include sickle cell anemia and thalassemia.
• Hepatic jaundice occurs due to liver diseases or damage that affects the liver's ability to metabolize and excrete bilirubin. Conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and alcoholic liver disease are common causes.
• Post-hepatic jaundice, also known as obstructive jaundice, is caused by an obstruction in the bile ducts that prevents bilirubin from being excreted into the gastrointestinal tract. This can be due to gallstones, pancreatic cancer, or cholangiocarcinoma.

Symptoms

In addition to the characteristic yellowing of the skin and eyes, jaundice can be accompanied by other symptoms, including:

• Dark urine
• Pale stools
• Itching
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain
• Weight loss
• Fever

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of jaundice involves a detailed medical history and physical examination, followed by laboratory tests to measure levels of bilirubin in the blood and to assess liver function. Imaging tests, such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, may be used to look for blockages in the bile ducts.

Treatment

Treatment of jaundice depends on the underlying cause. For pre-hepatic jaundice, managing the cause of increased red blood cell breakdown is key. In hepatic jaundice, treatment focuses on supporting liver function and treating the liver disease. For post-hepatic jaundice, relieving the bile duct obstruction is the primary treatment, which may involve surgery, endoscopic procedures, or other interventions.

Prevention

Preventing jaundice involves managing risk factors for liver disease, such as avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, and preventing viral hepatitis through vaccination and safe practices.