Why does malaria cause jaundice?

Jaundice is a common presentation of Malaria. It may be noticed first in the whites of the eyes, then in the skin, and urine may look darker than usual. Bilirubin is made when old red blood cells are broken down; the liver normally processes it for removal. Malaria can increase red-cell breakdown and can affect how well the body handles bilirubin. Hepatitis, gallstones, some medicines, and other blood conditions can also cause jaundice, so the cause needs medical assessment.

Seek medical advice without delay if yellowing appears, particularly with fever or after travel where malaria occurs. Note changes in urine or stool colour, abdominal discomfort, itching, fever, vomiting, and reduced appetite. Take a list of medicines, supplements, and recent travel details to the appointment. Avoid alcohol and do not start unprescribed medicines or herbal products, as these can add pressure to the liver or make assessment harder. A clinician may arrange blood tests to check for malaria, anaemia, and liver involvement.

Get urgent medical help for jaundice with fever, confusion, unusual sleepiness, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fainting, breathing difficulty, or very dark urine with reduced urine output. Emergency assessment is also needed if symptoms are rapidly worsening. Children, pregnant people, and anyone with a weakened immune system should be assessed promptly when jaundice or fever develops after potential malaria exposure.

Ask whether the yellowing could reflect malaria, a liver problem, or increased red-cell breakdown, and which tests will clarify this. Ask which symptoms mean you should return urgently and whether current medicines need reviewing.