How is viral jaundice caused?

Viral jaundice is mainly caused by viral infections, especially hepatotropic viruses such as hepatitis A, B, and C. These viruses infect the human body through routes such as blood transmission, mother-to-child transmission, or sexual transmission. After entering the liver, the viruses replicate, leading to damage of liver cells. Damaged liver cells release large amounts of bilirubin; however, due to impaired liver function, bilirubin cannot be effectively processed, resulting in its accumulation in the bloodstream. When bilirubin reaches a certain concentration, it manifests as yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, known as jaundice. In addition, certain medications may also cause liver damage and worsen jaundice symptoms. Therefore, the development of viral jaundice results from the combined effects of viral infection, liver cell injury, and bilirubin accumulation.