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ictericia means jaundice — a common term in Medical Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: September 29, 2025

🩺 Medical Spanish

ictericia

noun • /[eek-teh-REE-syah]/

jaundice

Example:

Observamos ictericia en escleras y piel.

We observe jaundice in sclera and skin.

🧠 What does ictericia mean?

Ictericia is the Spanish word for jaundice, a medical condition characterized by a yellowish discoloration of the skin, whites of the eyes (sclera), and mucous membranes. This yellowing is caused by a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow-orange bile pigment, in the blood. Ictericia can indicate various underlying health issues, ranging from relatively benign to serious, so it's essential to seek medical attention if you notice these symptoms.

📚 Extra examples

  • El médico diagnosticó ictericia al bebé.
    The doctor diagnosed the baby with jaundice.
  • La ictericia puede ser un síntoma de problemas hepáticos.
    Jaundice can be a symptom of liver problems.
  • El paciente presentaba ictericia y dolor abdominal.
    The patient presented with jaundice and abdominal pain.

💡 Did You Know?

The yellowish discoloration in jaundice is often first noticeable in the whites of the eyes. This can be a key early warning sign.

🔍 See more medical spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'jaundice' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'jaundice' is 'ictericia'.
How do you pronounce 'ictericia' in Spanish?
It's pronounced ee-kteh-REE-thee-ah. The stress falls on the third-to-last syllable (REE). Remember to roll the 'r'.
How do you use 'ictericia' in a sentence?
Here are some examples: 'El médico diagnosticó ictericia.' (The doctor diagnosed jaundice.) or 'Los síntomas incluían ictericia y fiebre.' (The symptoms included jaundice and fever).
What is the English translation of 'ictericia'?
The English translation of 'ictericia' is 'jaundice'.
Does 'ictericia' change for gender or number?
No, 'ictericia' is a feminine noun and always stays the same, regardless of number. You would say 'la ictericia' for both one and multiple instances of jaundice.
Is 'ictericia' common in everyday Spanish?
While not a word used daily, 'ictericia' is readily understood by Spanish speakers. It's more common in medical settings or when discussing health issues.
Does 'ictericia' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'ictericia' has no slang meanings or double meanings and refers strictly to the medical condition jaundice.
Is 'ictericia' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
'Ictericia' has the same meaning and usage throughout the Spanish-speaking world.

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