What does the term pre-icteric mean?

The term pre-icteric refers to the phase that occurs before the onset of jaundice, which is the yellowing of the skin and the eyes typically associated with liver dysfunction. During the pre-icteric phase, there might be early signs of liver disease, such as changes in urine color, fatigue, malaise, or changes in appetite, but the hallmark sign of jaundice has not yet developed. Understanding this phase is important for early diagnosis and intervention in liver-related illnesses, allowing healthcare professionals to take appropriate measures before more severe symptoms manifest.