Retention jaundice is a medical condition where excess bilirubin builds up in the bloodstream due to the failure of the liver to properly excrete it. This condition is spelled rɪˈtɛnʃən ˈdʒɔːndɪs according to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced as "rih-ten-shun," and the second syllable is pronounced as "jawn-diss." The IPA helps to accurately transcribe the pronunciation of words, making it easier for medical professionals to communicate effectively with each other.
Retention jaundice is a medical condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes, and sclerae due to the accumulation of bilirubin in the body. Bilirubin is a natural yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells, which is normally removed from the bloodstream by the liver and excreted in the bile.
However, in cases of retention jaundice, there is an impairment in the normal flow of bile, leading to the accumulation of bilirubin in the bloodstream. This impairment can occur as a result of various underlying factors, such as obstructions or blockages in the bile ducts, liver disease, or dysfunction of the gallbladder.
The main symptoms of retention jaundice include yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine, pale stools, itchiness, fatigue, and abdominal pain. Diagnosis of this condition often involves blood tests to measure the levels of bilirubin, liver function tests, and imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI to identify the cause of the obstruction.
Treatment for retention jaundice depends on the underlying cause and may involve the surgical removal of obstructions, medication to dissolve gallstones, or liver transplantation in severe cases. It is essential to address the underlying cause of retention jaundice promptly, as the condition can lead to complications such as liver damage, infection, or failure if left untreated.
Overall, retention jaundice is a condition characterized by the accumulation of bilirubin due to impaired bile flow, resulting in yellowing of the skin and eyes. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing this condition effectively.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "retention jaundice" is a medical term used to describe a condition where there is an excessive accumulation of bilirubin in the blood, leading to a yellowish discoloration of the skin and eyes.
The etymology of "retention jaundice" can be broken down into two parts:
1. Retention: The term "retention" comes from the Latin word "retentio", which means "a holding back or keeping". In medical contexts, it refers to the abnormal accumulation or trapping of a substance in the body.
2. Jaundice: The term "jaundice" originated from the French word "jaunisse", which is derived from the Old French word "jaune" meaning "yellow". The Old French word, in turn, traces back to the Latin word "galbinus", which also means "yellowish".