Jaundice is a condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin and eyes due to the accumulation of bilirubin in the body. There are three types of jaundice:
- Prehepatic jaundice: This type of jaundice occurs when there is an excessive breakdown of red blood cells, leading to the production of a large amount of bilirubin in the bloodstream. The liver is unable to process the bilirubin efficiently, and as a result, it accumulates in the body, leading to jaundice.
- Hepatic jaundice: This type of jaundice occurs when the liver is damaged and unable to process bilirubin efficiently. This can be due to various reasons, including viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, cirrhosis, or drug-induced liver damage.
- Post-hepatic jaundice: This type of jaundice occurs when there is a blockage in the bile ducts, preventing the liver from excreting bile and bilirubin into the intestines. This can be due to various reasons, including gallstones, pancreatic cancer, or tumors in the bile ducts.
