The development of jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) is very likely to be related to liver or bile duct disease. A common cause is due to gallstone disease causing a blockage in the bile ducts. Liver disease may involve inflammation of the liver (hepatitis) which can be acute or chronic. If persistent or long-standing, liver inflammation can lead to fatty changes which can progress to fibrosis and cirrhosis (severe scarring and impaired function).