Jaundice in pregnancy can arise from various causes, broadly categorized into those specific to pregnancy and those that occur independently of pregnancy. Acute viral hepatitis is a common cause.
Here's a breakdown:
Pregnancy-Specific Causes of Jaundice:
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Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP): Also known as obstetric cholestasis, this is the most common cause of jaundice unique to pregnancy. It's characterized by impaired bile flow, leading to a buildup of bile acids in the blood.
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Hyperemesis Gravidarum: Severe and persistent vomiting during pregnancy can lead to liver dysfunction and jaundice in rare cases.
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Acute Fatty Liver of Pregnancy (AFLP): A rare but serious condition that typically presents in the third trimester. It's characterized by fatty infiltration of the liver, leading to liver failure.
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HELLP Syndrome: (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, Low Platelet count) This severe form of pre-eclampsia can cause liver damage and jaundice. HELLP syndrome may or may not be accompanied by hypertension or proteinuria.
Non-Pregnancy-Specific Causes of Jaundice:
These are causes of jaundice that can occur in anyone, pregnant or not:
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Viral Hepatitis: Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E viruses can all cause jaundice. Hepatitis E is particularly dangerous during pregnancy.
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Gallstones: Gallstones can obstruct the bile duct, leading to jaundice. Pregnancy increases the risk of gallstones.
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Drug-Induced Liver Injury: Certain medications can cause liver damage and jaundice.
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Autoimmune Hepatitis: This is a chronic inflammatory liver disease caused by the body's own immune system attacking the liver.
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Biliary Obstruction (other than gallstones): Tumors or other conditions can block the bile ducts.
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Hemolytic Anemia: The rapid destruction of red blood cells releases bilirubin, which can overwhelm the liver's ability to process it, leading to jaundice.
It's important to note that any pregnant woman experiencing jaundice should be evaluated promptly to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
