What is Icterus?

Icterus is the medical term for yellowish discoloration of the skin and whites of the eyes. It is a sign of high levels of bilirubin in the blood, a yellow pigment formed during the breakdown of hemoglobin in red blood cells.

Icterus can be a symptom of a variety of underlying conditions, including:

* Liver disease: Icterus is a common symptom of liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and alcoholic liver disease. Liver damage impairs the liver's ability to remove bilirubin from the bloodstream.

* Gallbladder disease: Blockage of the bile ducts, such as by a gallstone, can also cause icterus. This can prevent bilirubin from flowing into the intestines and being excreted.

* Pancreatic cancer: Pancreatic tumors can also obstruct the bile ducts and cause icterus.

* Hemolytic anemia: This condition occurs when red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be replaced. The increased breakdown of red blood cells leads to high levels of bilirubin in the blood.

* Newborn icterus: This is a common condition in newborns, caused by the liver's immaturity at birth. It usually resolves on its own within a few weeks.

In some cases, icterus can be a sign of a serious medical condition and should be evaluated promptly by a doctor.

Symptoms

In addition to yellow discoloration of the skin and whites of the eyes, other symptoms of icterus can include:

* Dark urine

* Light-colored stools

* Itching

* Fatigue

* Nausea and vomiting

* Abdominal pain

Treatment

Treatment for icterus depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, treatment may not be necessary as the condition will resolve on its own. In other cases, treatment may involve medications, surgery, or lifestyle changes to address the underlying condition.

Prevention

There is no sure way to prevent all cases of icterus, but the following can help reduce the risk of developing the condition:

* Getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B

* Practicing safe sex to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can damage the liver

* Avoiding alcohol abuse

* Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly to maintain a healthy weight

* Avoiding exposure to certain toxins and medications that can damage the liver