Function

Jaundice usually occurs because the liver cannot process the amount of red blood cells dying every day, resulting in too much of a chemical called bilirubin. If not bilirubin problem, then bile may be collecting in the liver

Substance Related Causes

Jaundice often results from cirrhosis of the liver in alcoholic patients. Certain drug medications may induce hepatitis (swelling) or cholestasis (impedance of bile movement) in the liver.

Chronic Conditions

The National Institute of Health reports that birth conditions such as Gilbert Syndrome and Dubin-Johnson Syndrome--which prevent the liver from processing old blood cells properly--may stay with the patient throughout his life.

Considerations

In order to treat jaundice, doctors will need to determine the cause. Typically, the doctor first checks the blood for bilirubin levels. X-rays are used to look for liver blockage and biopsies may be needed if the physician suspects liver damage.

Treatment

Treatment for jaundice in adults depends on the source. Changing medications, for example, helps with prescription drug causes and surgery is used to remove obstructions in the liver.

Source:

BBC News: Juandice

National Health Institute: Jaundice - yellow skin