Jaundice

Definition

Jaundice is a yellowish discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and sclera (whites of the eyes) caused by an excess of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. This condition is often associated with liver or gallbladder disorders, but can also occur in other medical conditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jaundice can be a side effect of certain anabolic steroids, particularly those that are 17-alpha-alkylated, as they can cause liver toxicity and impair the liver's ability to metabolize bilirubin.
2. Antiandrogens, such as flutamide and bicalutamide, can also potentially cause jaundice as a side effect due to their impact on liver function.
3. Jaundice associated with the use of anabolic steroids or antiandrogens is typically a sign of liver damage or dysfunction, and should be promptly reported to a healthcare provider.
4. The development of jaundice in individuals taking androgens, antiandrogens, or anabolic steroids may indicate the need to adjust the dosage or discontinue the medication.
5. Careful monitoring of liver function tests, such as bilirubin levels, is important for individuals using these types of medications to detect any signs of liver impairment and prevent the progression of jaundice.

Review Questions

• Explain the relationship between jaundice and the use of anabolic steroids.
  • Anabolic steroids, particularly those that are 17-alpha-alkylated, can cause liver toxicity and impair the liver's ability to properly metabolize and excrete bilirubin. This can lead to an accumulation of bilirubin in the body, resulting in the development of jaundice, a yellowish discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and sclera. The presence of jaundice in individuals using anabolic steroids is a sign of liver damage or dysfunction and may indicate the need to adjust the dosage or discontinue the medication.
• Describe how antiandrogens can contribute to the development of jaundice.
  • Antiandrogens, such as flutamide and bicalutamide, can also potentially cause jaundice as a side effect due to their impact on liver function. Similar to anabolic steroids, antiandrogens can impair the liver's ability to properly metabolize and excrete bilirubin, leading to an accumulation of this yellow pigment in the body and the subsequent development of jaundice. The appearance of jaundice in individuals taking antiandrogens may signify the need for healthcare providers to monitor liver function more closely and potentially adjust the medication regimen.
• Evaluate the importance of monitoring liver function in individuals using androgens, antiandrogens, or anabolic steroids to prevent the progression of jaundice.
  • Careful monitoring of liver function tests, such as bilirubin levels, is crucial for individuals using androgens, antiandrogens, or anabolic steroids to detect any signs of liver impairment and prevent the progression of jaundice. The development of jaundice in these individuals is a clear indicator of liver damage or dysfunction, which can be a serious adverse effect of these medications. By closely monitoring liver function and addressing any issues promptly, healthcare providers can help mitigate the risk of jaundice and other liver-related complications, ensuring the safe and effective use of these medications. Proactive management of liver health is essential for individuals taking these types of drugs to maintain their overall well-being.

Related terms

Bilirubin: A yellow pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. Excess bilirubin in the body leads to the development of jaundice.

Liver Dysfunction: Impairment in the liver's ability to properly metabolize and excrete bilirubin, leading to the accumulation of bilirubin and the development of jaundice.

Hemolysis: The premature destruction or breakdown of red blood cells, which can result in the overproduction of bilirubin and the subsequent development of jaundice.