Required Knowledge base to manage patients with Jaundice
Dr A.J. Chandrasekhar

Biochemical definition of jaundice

Bilirubin >2.5 mg/dl

Bilirubin metabolism

Red cell phase (Source)

Role of Liver

Liver has a central role in metabolism of 

Bilirubin uptake

Conjugation

Excretory phase

GI phase

How do you Classify jaundice

By metabolic mechanisms By Pathological mechanism
Overproduction Hemolytic jaundice
Decreased hepatic uptake Hepatocelluar failure??
Decreased hepatic conjugation Hepatocelluar failure??
Decreased excretion into bile Cholestatic jaundice
Obstructive jaundice

Unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia

80-85 % of unconjugated bilirubin (indirect)  in unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia

Conjugated hyperbilirubinemia

>50% direct reacting indicates conjugated hyperbilirubinemia

Important historical information you should gather from history and why

Important physical findings you should gather from physical examination and why

Useful lab studies in evaluation of a patient with jaundice and their utility

Chronic bile stasis