Icterus
Icterus
Icterus (pronounced: ik-ter-us), also known as jaundice, is a medical condition characterized by yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes, and the whites of the eyes. The term "icterus" is derived from the Greek word "ikteros", which refers to the yellow jaundice.
Etymology
The term "icterus" comes from the Ancient Greek word "ικτερος" (ikteros), which was used to describe the condition of yellow jaundice. The word was also used to refer to a yellow bird, the sight of which was believed to cure the disease.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of icterus is a yellowish discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and the whites of the eyes. Other symptoms may include fatigue, weight loss, itching, and dark urine.
Causes
Icterus is caused by an excess of bilirubin, a yellow-orange substance, in the body's tissues. This can occur due to a variety of conditions, including liver disease, gallbladder disease, and certain types of anemia.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of icterus typically involves a physical examination, blood tests to measure bilirubin levels, and imaging tests to examine the liver and gallbladder.
Treatment
Treatment for icterus depends on the underlying cause. This may involve medication, surgery, or other treatments to address the specific condition causing the excess bilirubin.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Icterus
- Wikipedia's article - Icterus
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