(noun. /JAWN-dis/)
by Anna Wheless
What does it mean?
Jaundice is a medical symptom characterized by a yellowing of the whites of the eyes, the skin, and the lips/gums. This yellow discoloration is caused by the buildup of a chemical called bilirubin. Bilirubin is constantly produced in our bodies when we break down old red blood cells, and normally the bilirubin is excreted. When bilirubin excretion is not working properly, the yellow bilirubin sticks around in the bloodstream and makes the body appear yellow.
Bilirubin accumulation and the resulting jaundice can be caused by a number of things, including bile duct dysfunction, liver disease, and infection. All cases of jaundice must be evaluated by a physician.
How do I use it in a sentence?
My little sister was born with jaundice, but it cleared up after she was treated in the hospital.
The patient came in with jaundice and was evaluated by a physician.
Etymology
The term “jaundice” comes from the French word “jaune” meaning “yellow.”
Fields in which this term is commonly used
Medicine
Physiology
Veterinary medicine
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