4) Jaundice
Jaundice is a condition in which the skin and mucous membranes turn yellow. A doctor diagnoses jaundice by observing the white of the eyes of the patient. This is because the eyes also change color due to the high bilirubin levels in the body.
This was the most prominent manifestation that led to the discovery of the hepatitis B virus. Infestation of hepatitis virus leads to the breakdown of blood cells. Hyperbilirubinemia (excessive bilirubin in the blood) is a medical condition that leads to jaundice.
Old red blood cells are broken down into bilirubin in the spleen. This bilirubin is then transferred to the liver, which creates bile. If the liver (due to hepatitis B virus infection) can not utilize the bilirubins, they get accumulated in the blood. Here the yellow bilirubin imparts its color, thereby making the skin and eyes yellow.
Jaundice can result from several conditions, including drug abuse and infection. However, this is most frequently the result of underlying viral hepatitis infection. According to a study conducted in Kenya, jaundice is most commonly associated with viral hepatitis, specifically chronic HBV infections.
At least 30% of hepatitis B patients develop jaundice. In addition, as per a study, pregnant hepatitis B patients have higher bilirubin levels in the body and more evident jaundice than non-pregnant patients.
