Jaundice as a Diagnostic and Therapeutic Problem: A General Practitioner’s Approach

Abstract

<b><i>Background:</i></b> Jaundice is a common clinical finding in clinical practice of hepatologists and general practitioners. It occurs when serum bilirubin levels exceed 3 mg/dL. <b><i>Summary:</i></b> In this review, we summarize the pathophysiological mechanism of jaundice, clinical approach to the patient with jaundice, and laboratory and imaging techniques. Clinical presentation of jaundice manifests through yellow skin and sclera coloration. Evaluation of every patient includes detailed medical history and examination. In the laboratory, evaluation of enzymes of hepatic inflammation as well as cholestatic enzymes with serum bilirubin must be included. Additional laboratory analysis and imaging modalities are needed in order to differentiate jaundice etiology. Moreover, imaging is available and needed in further evaluation, and treatment is dependent on the underlying cause. <b><i>Key Messages:</i></b> In this review, we will outline the pathophysiological mechanism of jaundice, clinical approach to the patient with jaundice, and diagnostic and treatment approach to these patients.

Development of Non-Invasive Biosensors for Neonatal Jaundice Detection: A Review

“…Bilirubin production is higher in newborns than adults, gradually decreasing to normal levels within 10-14 days of birth. Babies cannot get rid of much bilirubin in the first few days after birth, because their livers may not be strong enough to remove it on their own (physiological jaundice) [11][12][13][14][15].…”

“…Premature birth, an elevated bilirubin load due to relative polycythaemia, a reduced erythrocyte life expectancy, immature hepatic absorption, conjugation processes, a decreased volume, and feeding intervals could lead to mild dehydration, and an exaggerated from of physiological jaundice are all risk factors for infants with multiple risk factors. Pathological jaundice, beginning within 24 h after delivery, the start of jaun-dice, and quickly increasing total blood bilirubin concentrations are some other causes of jaundice [11,12,[14][15][16].…”