JAUNDICE IN ADULTS – SURGICAL CAUSES AND TREATMENT
What Is Jaundice in Adults?
Jaundice in adults is a condition marked by the yellowing of the skin and eyes due to elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood. It is a symptom, not a disease, and can be caused by various underlying conditions, some of which may require surgical intervention.
Common Symptoms Include:
- Yellow discoloration of skin and eyes
- Dark urine
- Pale stools
- Itching
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain
Surgical Causes of Jaundice
- Gallstones: Can obstruct the bile duct, leading to jaundice.
- Cholangiocarcinoma: Cancer of the bile ducts, causing blockage.
- Pancreatic Cancer: Tumors in the pancreas may compress the bile duct.
- Strictures or Scarring of Bile Ducts: Can result from previous surgeries or infections.
- Biliary Atresia or Congenital Abnormalities: Less common in adults but still possible.
Surgical Treatment Options
- Cholecystectomy: Removal of the gallbladder if gallstones are the cause.
- Biliary Bypass Surgery: Rerouting the bile flow in cases of cancer or blockage.
- Whipple Procedure: A complex surgery for pancreatic or periampullary tumors.
- Endoscopic or Laparoscopic Stenting: To relieve bile duct obstruction non-invasively.
- Liver Resection: In cases of liver or bile duct tumors.
Benefits Of Surgery
- Relieves Obstruction: Restores normal bile flow.
- Reduces Symptoms: Alleviates jaundice, itching, and abdominal pain.
- Improves Liver Function: Prevents further liver damage.
- Treats Underlying Condition: Addresses the root cause, especially in cancer or strictures.
When To Seek Surgical Help
- Persistent yellowing of skin and eyes
- Unexplained weight loss or abdominal pain
- Dark urine and pale stools
- Recurring episodes of jaundice
- Diagnosis of structural or malignant causes on imaging or tests
If you or someone you know is suffering from jaundice with signs pointing to a surgical cause, consult Dr. Sachin Wani at HealWell Speciality Clinic in Manpada, Thane, Mumbai, for accurate diagnosis and expert surgical care.
