Jaundice / Icterus

Jaundice / icterus is yellowing of tissue due to elevated bilirubin levels. The tissue under the skin and on the surfaces of the stomachs and intestines is normally white to cream colored. If it is yellow, the animal is jaundiced/icteric. Three processes can lead to jaundice: 1. Over-production of bilirubin due to increased red blood cell destruction, 2. Liver disease, and 3. Bile duct obstruction. In a jaundiced animal, carefully assess the liver. If the liver appears normal, the jaundice may be due to increased red blood cell (erythrocyte) destruction, which can occur with certain blood parasites, such as anaplasmosis. Note that the dromedaries do not have a gall bladder.