Jaundice refers to yellowing of the skin and other areas of the body due to the buildup of a chemical called bilirubin. As part of normal health, the red blood cells in your child's body break down and release bilirubin into the blood. The liver uses bilirubin to make bile, which helps the body digest food and absorbs fats and some vitamins. If there is a problem moving bilirubin out of the liver, or a higher than normal number of red blood cells are breaking down, your child's skin, the white part of the eye, or mucus membrane may appear yellow. Specific causes of jaundice include: * Liver disease, such as hepatitis * Bile duct disease, such as biliary atresia * Blood problems, such as anemia * Certain medicines, or * Genetic conditions
