MALIGNANT JAUNDICE Meaning and
Definition
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Malignant jaundice is a medical condition characterized by the excessive accumulation of bilirubin within the body, leading to yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. It is typically a result of an underlying malignant tumor or cancerous growth within the liver, pancreas, or gallbladder. This condition is also known as obstructive jaundice or cholestatic jaundice.
In normal situations, bilirubin, a yellow pigment, is produced as a byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells. It is then transported to the liver, where it is processed and excreted through bile into the intestines. However, in the case of malignant jaundice, there is an obstruction in the bile ducts, preventing the bilirubin from being properly processed and eliminated. As a result, the bilirubin accumulates in the bloodstream, causing the characteristic yellow discoloration.
Malignant jaundice often presents with symptoms such as dark urine, pale stools, intense itching, fatigue, and abdominal pain. The underlying malignancy causing the obstruction needs to be diagnosed and treated promptly to prevent further complications. Imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, as well as blood tests and biopsies, are commonly used to identify the source of the obstruction.
Treatment for malignant jaundice usually involves addressing the underlying malignancy causing the bile duct obstruction. Depending on the location and stage of the cancer, treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches. In some cases, a stent may be inserted to relieve the blockage temporarily, allowing bile flow to be restored and relieving the symptoms of jaundice.
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Icterus gravis, acute yellow atrophy of the liver.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MALIGNANT JAUNDICE
- nalignant jaundice
- kalignant jaundice
- jalignant jaundice
- mzlignant jaundice
- mslignant jaundice
- mwlignant jaundice
- mqlignant jaundice
- makignant jaundice
- mapignant jaundice
- maoignant jaundice
- malugnant jaundice
- maljgnant jaundice
- malkgnant jaundice
- malognant jaundice
- mal9gnant jaundice
- mal8gnant jaundice
- malifnant jaundice
- malivnant jaundice
- malibnant jaundice
- malihnant jaundice
Etymology of MALIGNANT JAUNDICE
The word "malignant jaundice" can be broken down into two parts: "malignant" and "jaundice".
1. Malignant:
The term "malignant" comes from the Latin word "malignus", meaning "bad" or "evil". In medical terminology, it is used to indicate something that is severe, harmful, or potentially dangerous, typically referring to cancerous growths or diseases with a harmful prognosis.
2. Jaundice:
The word "jaundice" has its origins in the French word "jaunisse" which means "yellowing". It further traces back to the Old French word "jaune", meaning "yellow". "Jaundice" refers to a medical condition characterized by the yellow discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and eyes.
