Why does my brother get jaundice every year during summer?

Question

Hello doctor,

My brother has jaundice, and it occurs every year during the summer. He feels very low and lazy, and his body becomes yellow. He is experiencing weakness and swelling on his face and across his ankle. He also has a fever. We do not know why he gets sick every year. In addition to that, he has a low IQ.

Hence, he is unable to explain his situation well. We are really confused. Can you tell me what is actually happening? Please find attached the various lab reports for your review.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your post and the investigations (attachment removed to protect patient identity) that you have posted.

He has the following problems:

Platelet count of 40,000, which is low.
Iron-deficiency anemia.
Hepatospleenomegaly.
Raised serum bilirubin and mild elevation of liver enzymes.

He possibly has a chronic liver disease, which will explain all the manifestations that he has.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

He will require an extensive workup to find out the cause of it, which will include the following:

Hepatitis serology.
Wilson's profile.
Drug history.
Autoimmune profile.

Once the cause is found, the treatment will be accordingly.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.