Yellowing of the skin, whites of the eyes, or mucous membranes. Jaundice is a sign that the blood contains too much bilirubin, a substance produced when the liver breaks down red blood cells. It usually indicates liver dysfunction. Jaundice may be caused by liver diseases, such as hepatitis and cirrhosis; blood diseases; infections; or blocked bile ducts (gallbladder disease). Jaundice may also be caused by certain antiretroviral (ARV) drugs.