Jaundice is a medical condition characterized by a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. This occurs when there is an excess of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. Normally, the liver processes bilirubin, but if it is not functioning properly or if there is a blockage in the bile ducts, bilirubin can accumulate in the body. Jaundice can be caused by various factors, including liver diseases like hepatitis, gallstones, or certain blood disorders. It is important to identify the underlying cause to determine the appropriate treatment. In many cases, jaundice itself is a symptom rather than a disease.