Approach to Jaundice

Definitions and terminology of jaundice

Terms

Definitions

Bilirubin

  • Bilirubin is the breakdown product of red blood cells

Jaundice

  • Jaundice is the yellowish pigmentation due to bilirubin in below areas:
    • Skin
    • Conjunctiva
    • Other mucus membranes
  • Used interchangeably with icterus and hyperbilirubinemia

Bile

  • Bile contains bilirubin and excess cholesterol

Terminology

  • Normal total bilirubin (0-1.0 mg/dL or 0-17 mmol/L)
  • Jaundice usually seen with serum bilirubin > 2.0-2.5 mg/dL (> 50 mmol/L)
(Next Lesson) Classification of jaundice
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