Final answer:
Jaundice is the yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes caused by the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood when the liver's ability to process it is inadequate. This can happen as a result of conditions like cirrhosis or the presence of gallstones that obstruct the bile duct.
Step-by-step explanation:
When bile is absorbed into the bloodstream, it can cause a yellow discoloration of the sclera, mucosa, and skin, a condition known as jaundice. This occurs when the liver's ability to process old or damaged red blood cells is compromised, leading to an accumulation of bilirubin, a yellowish pigment made during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. Gallstones developing in the gallbladder can lead to jaundice if they block the bile duct, preventing bilirubin from being excreted and causing it to build up in the blood.
Several disorders and conditions can lead to jaundice, including cirrhosis of the liver and biliary tree obstruction. Different types of jaundice can occur, such as chronic idiopathic jaundice, characterized by excessive bile pigments in the urine and other symptoms.