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  • Jaundice is a condition characterized by significant buildup of bilirubin, a naturally occurring pigment created by the breakdown of red blood cells. Doctors consider the disorder pathologic when it endangers human health.

    The Facts

    According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library, liver stress or damage, excessive death of mature red blood cells and inadequate transport of bilirubin from the liver to the small intestine can cause jaundice.

    Underlying Conditions

    Underlying conditions leading to the development of medically significant (pathologic) jaundice include cirrhosis, hepatitis, blockages of the bile duct, infections, blood diseases and genetic disorders.

    Breastfeeding Jaundice

    Infants also might develop breastfeeding jaundice, a form of pathologic jaundice triggered by insufficient milk intake.

    Physiologic Jaundice

    Jaundice can also occur as a normal, temporary condition in newborn babies. In these circumstances, it is called physiologic jaundice.

    Considerations

    Physiologic jaundice in newborns can turn into pathologic jaundice in the aftermath of delivery difficulties, dehydration or premature birth.

    Source:

    U.S. National Library of Medicine: National Institutes of Health: Jaundice - Yellow Skin

    The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library : Jaundice

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