Jaundice, also known as icterus, is a yellowish or greenishpigmentation of the skin and whites of the eyes due to high bilirubin levels. It is commonly associated with itchiness. The feces may be pale and the urine dark. Jaundice in babiesoccurs in over half in the first week following birth and in most is not a problem. If bilirubin levels in babies are very high for too long a type of brain damage, known as kernicterus, may occur. High unconjugated bilirubin may be due to excess red blood cell breakdown, large bruises, genetic conditions such as Gilbert's syndrome, no eating for a prolonged period of time, newborn jaundice, or thyroid problems. High conjugated bilirubin may be due to liver diseases such as cirrhosis or hepatitis, infections, medications, or blockage of the bile duct.
