Definition: A yellow coloring of the skin and whites of the eyes. It is caused by the accumulation in the blood of bilirubin, a yellowish pigment in bile (which is produced in the liver).
When the liver is damaged, it can't easily perform its normal functions of maintenance. Thus, the bilirubin starts to accumulate in the blood and leaks into body tissues such as the skin and whites of the eyes, giving them a yellowish tint. Jaundice can also be detected in the mucous membranes, such as under the tongue.
More about jaundice and other hepatitis symptoms:
Also Known As: Icterus
