Jaundice is not a disease but a symptom of various diseases. Jaundice in dogs, sheep, and other animals is sometimes called yellows. Hemolytic jaundice results from an increased breakdown of red blood cells, which causes a greater concentration of bilirubin in the blood. Hepatocellular jaundice occurs when the liver is damaged so that it cannot secrete enough bile. Bilirubin collects in the body, causing jaundice.
Obstructive jaundice is caused by the blocking of the bile ducts.
Gallstones may cause such a blockage. Many babies are born with physiologic jaundice, which occurs if the body cannot process all the bilirubin it produces. In most cases, this condition disappears within two weeks after birth. Charles S. Lieber, M.D., Professor of Medicine and Pathology, Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, City Univ. of New York. How to cite this article.