![]() ![]() Its role is to keep the surface of the eye moist by producing tears that are necessary for vision. The palpebral conjunctiva, whch is located between the eyelids and covers the sclera, is typically pink. The sclera is composed of tough collagen fibers and other proteins, as well as elastic tissue that allows it to expand and contract in response to changes in ocular pressure. It serves to protect the inner structures of the eye, including the retina and optic nerve. The sclera is the outermost layer of the eye, and it is normally a white or slightly off-white color. If you experience any yellowing around your eyes it’s best to see your doctor for further evaluation and diagnosis. In conclusion, scleral icterus is caused by an accumulation in bilirubin levels due to varous underlying conditions such as gallstones, pancreatic cancer, cholangiocarcinoma, drug-induced liver damage, parasites (liver fluke), viral hepatitis, alcoholic cirrhosis and non-alcoholic cirrhosis. Lastly, alcoholic cirrhosis and non-alcoholic cirrhosis occurs when there is excessive scarring to the liver tissue due to overuse or abuse of alcohol or other lifestyle factors respectively. ![]() Viral hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by a virus which will also disrupt bilirubin processing causing scleral icterus. Parasites such as liver fluke can infect and damage the liver tissue which will case a disruption in bilirubin processing. Pancreatic cancer and cholangiocarcinoma can also block or obstruct bile flow and lead to an accumulation of bilirubin in the bloodstream.ĭrug-induced liver damage can occur when certain medications are taken over a long period of time or at high dosages. This will cuse an accumulation of bilirubin in the bloodstream, leading to scleral icterus. Gallstones are hard deposits that form in the gallbladder and can block or obstruct bile flow from entering the intestines. In adults, scleral icterus can also occur due to liver dysfunction, such as drug-induced liver disease, parasites (liver fluke), viral hepatitis, alcoholic cirrhosis and non-alcoholic cirrhosis. The most common causes include gallstones, pancreatic cancer, and cholangiocarcinoma (cancer of the bile ducts). It is most commonly asociated with jaundice, which occurs when bile is excreted into the bloodstream instead of being processed through the intestines. Scleral icterus is a yellow discoloration of the whites of the eyes caused by an elevation in bilirubin levels. ![]() If you experience any unusual symptoms such as yellowing of skin or eyes then it’s important to seek medical attention immediately - even if you thnk you may have anicteric sclera - as these could indicate more serious underlying health conditions that require further investigation and treatment. They will be able to assess your individual circumstances and provide advice based on your specific needs. It’s important to note that while anicteric sclera doesn’t indicate any underlying health problems or issues, it sould still be discussed with your doctor if you’re concerned about your health. These conditions can cause an elevation in bilirubin levels without causing any physical signs of jaundice. In some cases, anicteric sclera may be caused by certain medical conditions such as Gilbert’s syndrome or Dubin-Johnson syndrome - both of which are genetic disorders that affect how bilirubin is metabolized in the body. However, in anicteric sclera this mechanism works properly, preventing any excess bilirubin from entering the bloodstream and thus avoiding any signs of jaundice. A person’s liver norally filters out bilirubin, a pigment produced by red blood cells when they break down, and if this pigment builds up in the bloodstream it can cause jaundice - a yellow discoloration of skin and eyes. Anicteric sclera is caused by the normal functioning of the body’s protective mechanisms which prevent jaundice from forming. ![]()
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