Jaundice
Tests
The goal of testing is to determine the cause of the jaundice and to evaluate the severity of the underlying condition. Initial testing is usually focused on the liver. Specific additional tests, such as viral hepatitis testing and/or testing to evaluate increased RBC destruction, may be ordered along with or following the initial tests based on the patient’s clinical findings and the doctor’s suspicions of the cause of the jaundice.
The goal of testing is to determine the cause of the jaundice and to evaluate the severity of the underlying condition. Initial testing is usually focused on the liver. Specific additional tests, such as viral hepatitis testing and/or testing to evaluate increased RBC destruction, may be ordered along with or following the initial tests based on the patient’s clinical findings and the doctor’s suspicions of the cause of the jaundice.
Laboratory Tests
Testing may include:
- Liver Panel
- ALT (Alanine aminotransferase)
- ALP (Alkaline phosphatase)
- AST (Aspartate aminotransferase)
- Bilirubin, Total (conjugated and unconjugated), Direct (conjugated) and Indirect (unconjugated)
- Albumin
- GGT (Gamma-glutamyl transferase)
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- CBC (Complete Blood Count)
- Reticulocyte Count (if CBC is abnormal)
Non-Laboratory Tests
Imaging tests and liver biopsies may be used to help evaluate the status and structure of the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts. Testing may include:
- Abdominal ultrasound
- CT (Computed tomography) scan
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP, an imaging of the pancreas and bile ducts)
- Liver biopsy
