![]() ![]() Changes in the eyes are associated with a wide range of liver diseases. Identifying scleral icterus is important for diagnosing underlying medical conditions. The conjunctiva (mucous membrane) of the eye, rather than the sclera, is what actually takes on the yellow color as bilirubin levels rise. Scleral icterus is often used to describe jaundice in the eyes, though this label is not entirely accurate. Likewise, uncomfortable symptoms associated with jaundice can be treated. The underlying causes of jaundice need to be addressed. Typically, jaundice does not require treatment. Medicines, including acetaminophen toxicity, penicillin, oral contraceptives, chlorpromazine, and anabolic or estrogenic steroidsįor some people, the symptoms of jaundice are minor.There is typically an underlying condition, such as a virus or infection, causing jaundice to develop.Ĭauses of jaundice include the following: Jaundice is caused by problems that occur in bilirubin production. The severity of the above symptoms varies depending on the cause of jaundice and how swiftly the disease progresses. Short-term instances of jaundice that are usually caused by an infection can include the following symptoms: Additional symptoms can accompany the condition. Jaundice is most recognizable by the yellowish color of the skin and eyes. Excess levels of bilirubin cause the skin, whites of the eyes (sclera), and mucous membranes to turn yellow. When someone has jaundice, they have high levels of bilirubin, a yellow-orange bile pigment, in their system. Jaundice can occur in babies, children, and adults. Also called conjunctiva icterus, scleral icterus refers to the yellowing of the eyes. Scleral icterus is also caused by increased bilirubin levels in the body. Conditions that interfere with bilirubin production and processing include viruses, autoimmune disorders, and gallbladder and liver disease, among others. Jaundice is caused by disruptions to the proper processing of bilirubin. The result is a yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Jaundice occurs when bilirubin levels in the body get too high. Correctly identifying the extent of bilirubin buildup in the body will lend to proper diagnosis of the underlying conditions and their treatments. Scleral icterus and jaundice are commonly confused because they share similar causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Why Scleral Icterus & Jaundice Are Commonly Confused. ![]()
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