Differential Diagnosis for Yellow Skin
- Single most likely diagnosis + Jaundice due to liver dysfunction (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis): This is the most common cause of yellow skin, as liver dysfunction leads to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood, causing the characteristic yellow discoloration.
- Other Likely diagnoses + Carotenemia: A harmless condition caused by excessive consumption of carotenoid-rich foods (e.g., carrots, sweet potatoes), leading to yellow-orange skin discoloration. + Pancreatic cancer: Some pancreatic tumors can cause jaundice by obstructing the bile duct, leading to yellow skin. + Hemolytic anemia: Certain types of anemia, such as those caused by autoimmune disorders or infections, can lead to increased bilirubin production and yellow skin.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.) + Liver failure: Acute liver failure can cause severe jaundice and is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt medical attention. + Bile duct obstruction: Obstruction of the bile duct can cause severe jaundice and lead to life-threatening complications, such as cholangitis or sepsis. + Hemochromatosis: A genetic disorder that causes excessive iron absorption, leading to liver damage and potentially life-threatening complications if left untreated.
- Rare diagnoses + Gilbert's syndrome: A rare genetic disorder that affects the liver's ability to process bilirubin, leading to intermittent jaundice. + Dubin-Johnson syndrome: A rare genetic disorder that causes chronic jaundice due to impaired bilirubin transport in the liver. + Porphyrias: A group of rare genetic disorders that can cause yellow skin discoloration due to abnormalities in heme production.