Chronic Idiopathic Jaundice is a medical condition characterized by a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. The word "chronic" is spelled as /ˈkrɒnɪk/, "idiopathic" as /ˌɪdɪə(ʊ)ˈpæθɪk/ and "jaundice" as /ˈdʒɔːndɪs/. The IPA phonetic transcription helps to accurately convey the pronunciation of each word, making it easier for healthcare professionals to communicate and diagnose patients. It is important to note that Chronic Idiopathic Jaundice is a rare condition that requires prompt medical attention to prevent serious complications.
Chronic idiopathic jaundice, also known as Gilbert's syndrome, is a benign liver disorder characterized by mild, intermittent, and unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia. This condition is named after the French gastroenterologist Augustin Nicolas Gilbert who first described it in 1901. The term "chronic" signifies that the condition persists over a long period of time.
In chronic idiopathic jaundice, the liver is unable to properly manage bilirubin, a yellow pigment derived from the breakdown of hemoglobin. Normally, the liver processes bilirubin and converts it into a water-soluble form which can be excreted in the bile. However, individuals with this condition have a reduced activity of the enzyme glucuronyl transferase, which is responsible for the conversion of bilirubin. As a result, bilirubin levels can become elevated in the blood leading to the characteristic yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes called jaundice.
Chronic idiopathic jaundice is generally a harmless condition, and affected individuals may go through phases of increased and decreased bilirubin levels without any discernible symptoms. The elevation of bilirubin levels is often triggered by factors such as fasting, physical exertion, stress, or illness. Although there is no specific treatment for this condition, it is important to differentiate it from other liver diseases that may cause similar symptoms. Therefore, medical consultation and regular monitoring are recommended to confirm the diagnosis and rule out any underlying liver disorders.