# Jaundice --- **jaundice** is a condition that is caused by a malfunction of the [[liver]], where it is unable to excrete [[red blood cell recycling|bilirubin]], causing it to build up in the bloodstream. It is characterized by a yellowing of the skin and the sclera, because bilirubin itself is a dark pigment. A healthy liver filters bilirubin from the blood and expels it as a part of [[bile]]. If the liver and/or the bile ducts are inflamed this process is interrupted, and causes a buildup of bilirubin. ## Signs & Symptoms The signs and symptoms of jaundice are due to the dark pigment building up in the bloodstream, but we also see the absence of it in the feces. - yellow skin/sclera - pruritic - clay-colored stool - brown urine ## Diagnostic Tests Blood tests will show and increase in bilirubin in the blood as well as an increase in [[liver|liver enzymes]]. ## Treatment Treatment for jaundice consists of treating the underlying condition. ___