Yellow pigment disease is essentially jaundice, a condition characterized by a yellowish discoloration of the skin, sclera (whites of the eyes), and mucous membranes. This yellowing is caused by an elevated level of bilirubin, a yellow pigment, in the blood (hyperbilirubinemia).
Here's a breakdown:
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Bilirubin: Bilirubin is a waste product produced when the liver breaks down old red blood cells.
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Normal Process: Normally, the liver processes bilirubin and eliminates it from the body through bile, which is then excreted in the stool.
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Jaundice Occurs When: Jaundice develops when bilirubin accumulates in the blood faster than the liver can process and excrete it. This can happen due to several reasons:
- Excessive Red Blood Cell Breakdown: The liver becomes overwhelmed with bilirubin if red blood cells are being destroyed at an accelerated rate (hemolysis).
- Liver Dysfunction: Liver diseases like hepatitis or cirrhosis can impair the liver's ability to process bilirubin.
- Bile Duct Obstruction: Blockages in the bile ducts (e.g., gallstones, tumors) prevent bilirubin from being excreted.
In summary, "yellow pigment disease" is another way to describe jaundice, a condition caused by excess bilirubin in the blood, leading to yellowing of the skin and eyes.
