What Causes The Skin To Turn Yellow?

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Jul 13, 2024

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Yellow skin is often caused by a condition known as jaundice, which occurs when there is an excess of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. Liver issues, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, can prevent the liver from properly processing bilirubin, leading to its buildup. Other causes include blockages in the bile ducts, infections, or inherited conditions like Gilbert's syndrome. Recognizing the underlying cause is crucial for treatment and preventing more serious health issues.

Choledocholithiasis

Choledocholithiasis, or the formation of a gallstone in the common bile duct, can obstruct the flow of bile that contains bilirubin to the intestines. This obstruction can cause bilirubin to back up into the liver and bloodstream, leading to jaundice. The common bile duct is typically narrow, about six millimeters in diameter, making it susceptible to blockages. Treatment often involves a procedure called choledocholithotomy, where a small incision is made to insert a tube and a balloon to remove the stone and restore bile flow.

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Gilbert’s Syndrome

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Effects of Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy drugs used in cancer treatment can significantly impact liver function, impairing its ability to process and clear bilirubin. Some cancers also directly weaken the liver, increasing its vulnerability to damage from medications. Complications from chemotherapy can include liver cell damage, vein obstruction in the liver, or liver fibrosis, all of which can contribute to jaundice. It is essential for healthcare providers to monitor patients undergoing chemotherapy for signs of jaundice as an indicator of liver distress.

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Hemolytic Anemia

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Crigler-Najjar Syndrome

Crigler-Najjar Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that disrupts the normal metabolism of bilirubin, leading to severe jaundice. This condition is characterized by high levels of unconjugated bilirubin, which can result in neurological damage if not managed properly. Occurring in fewer than one in a million live births, its exact causes are not well-understood due to its rarity. In some cases, liver cell transplantation has been successfully used to treat this condition, as in the notable recovery of a ten-year-old girl with the syndrome.

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Liver Cirrhosis

Liver cirrhosis involves the scarring of liver tissue, which impedes the liver’s ability to function properly, including its capability to process and clear bilirubin. Causes of cirrhosis include chronic alcohol abuse, hepatitis infections, and fatty liver disease. As the liver function deteriorates, bilirubin accumulates in the bloodstream, leading to jaundice. Managing liver cirrhosis involves addressing the underlying cause, possibly through lifestyle changes, medication, or in severe cases, liver transplantation.

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Hepatitis

Hepatitis, or inflammation of the liver, can be caused by viruses (such as hepatitis A, B, and C), toxins, certain drugs, and autoimmune diseases. This inflammation can impair the liver's ability to excrete bilirubin effectively, causing its levels to rise and result in jaundice. Treatment depends on the specific type of hepatitis, ranging from antiviral medications for viral hepatitis to avoiding alcohol and other liver-damaging substances in toxin-induced cases.

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Biliary Stricture

Sometimes, the common bile duct may narrow abnormally, a condition known as biliary stricture. This narrowing is usually a result of damage to the bile ducts, with surgery being the most frequent cause, though other conditions like pancreatitis can also lead to this issue. Symptoms of a biliary stricture can include nausea, chills, fever, and jaundice. Treatment aims to restore the common bile duct to its original width. To achieve this, some surgeons might insert stents to expand the duct, while others may opt to surgically remove the constricted segment and reattach the duct to the small intestine.

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Cholestasis

Cholestasis refers to any condition in which the flow of bile from the liver stops or slows down. This can occur within the liver (intrahepatic) or outside the liver (extrahepatic). Diseases such as primary biliary cholangitis and certain medications can cause cholestasis. The backup of bile leads to an accumulation of bilirubin, causing jaundice. Treatment focuses on the underlying cause and may include medications to improve bile flow, dietary adjustments, and, in some cases, procedures to clear blocked bile ducts.

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Medications

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