Jaundice: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Surgical Management
Jaundice is a medical condition characterized by yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes due to an increased level of bilirubin in the blood. It is not a disease by itself but a sign of an underlying problem involving the liver, bile ducts, gall bladder, or pancreas. Early evaluation and appropriate treatment are essential to prevent complications.
What Is Jaundice?
Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. The liver processes bilirubin and helps eliminate it from the body through bile. When this process is disturbed, bilirubin accumulates in the blood, leading to jaundice.
Jaundice can affect people of all ages and may range from mild and temporary to severe and life-threatening, depending on the cause.
Common Causes of Jaundice
Jaundice may occur due to various conditions, including:
Gall bladder stones blocking the bile duct
Common bile duct (CBD) stones
Liver diseases such as hepatitis or cirrhosis
Pancreatic tumors or cancers
Bile duct strictures or injury
Infections affecting the liver
Identifying the exact cause is crucial for effective treatment.
Symptoms of Jaundice
Along with yellowing of the skin and eyes, patients may experience:
Dark-colored urine
Pale or clay-colored stools
Itching of the skin
Abdominal pain
Loss of appetite
Nausea or vomiting
Fever in some cases
Any appearance of jaundice should be evaluated promptly by a specialist.
How Is Jaundice Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of jaundice involves a detailed clinical evaluation and investigations such as:
Blood tests (liver function tests)
Ultrasound of the abdomen
CT scan or MRI
MRCP or ERCP when bile duct blockage is suspected
These tests help determine whether jaundice is due to liver disease or bile duct obstruction.
Surgical and Interventional Treatment for Jaundice
Treatment depends on the underlying cause:
Gallstones or CBD stones: Managed with ERCP, laparoscopic CBD exploration, or gall bladder surgery
Bile duct obstruction: May require stenting, dilation, or surgical bypass
Tumors of the pancreas or bile duct: Treated with surgery, chemotherapy, or palliative procedures
Strictures or injuries: Corrected through reconstructive surgery
Early intervention significantly improves outcomes, especially in obstructive jaundice.
Role of Laparoscopic and Minimally Invasive Surgery
Modern minimally invasive techniques allow safe and effective treatment of many causes of jaundice with:
Smaller incisions
Less post-operative pain
Faster recovery
Reduced hospital stay
The choice of treatment is individualized based on the patient’s condition and diagnosis.
Personalized Treatment
Every patient is unique. We develop individualized care plans based on your condition, goals, and preferences.
Advanced Diagnostics
Access to cutting-edge imaging, laboratory, and diagnostic tools ensures accurate assessments.
Ongoing Monitoring
We offer follow-up care, education, and guidance to help you maintain your health over time.
Expert Care Under Dr. Ajay Sharma
Dr. Ajay Sharma is an experienced Gastrointestinal Surgeon with expertise in diagnosing and managing jaundice caused by gallstones, bile duct obstruction, and complex hepatobiliary conditions. He offers advanced laparoscopic and endoscopic solutions tailored to each patient.
His approach emphasizes accurate diagnosis, timely intervention, and comprehensive post-treatment care.
When Should You Consult a GI Surgeon?
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice:
Book a Consultation
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of jaundice, consult Dr. Ajay Sharma, Gastrointestinal Surgeon, for expert evaluation and advanced treatment options.
Prompt care can make a significant difference in recovery and long-term health.
