Classification of Jaundice
| Type | Primary Pathology | Bilirubin Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-hepatic | Increased bilirubin production (e.g., hemolysis). | High Unconjugated |
| Hepatic | Liver dysfunction (e.g., viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, drug toxicity). | Mixed (both elevated) |
| Post-hepatic | Biliary obstruction (e.g., gallstones, cancer). | High Conjugated |
High-Yield Clinical Clues:
- Pre-hepatic: Urine urobilinogen is increased; stools are normal in color.
- Hepatic: Variable depending on the degree of damage and obstruction.
- Post-hepatic: Acholic (pale) stools and dark urine (bilirubinuria). Increased Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) is typical.