Unveiling Jaundice: The Tests You Need to Know!
Unveiling Jaundice: The Tests You Need to Know!
Testing 101
Spotting jaundice early can make a huge difference, and it all starts with the right tests. Let's explore the essential tests that help diagnose jaundice effectively.
Contents
- Bilirubin Blood Test
- Liver Function Tests
- Imaging Tests
Bilirubin Blood Test
The bilirubin blood test measures the levels of bilirubin in your blood, helping to identify jaundice. High levels of bilirubin indicate that the liver might not be processing it properly. This test is crucial in distinguishing between unconjugated and conjugated hyperbilirubinemia, guiding further diagnosis and treatment.
Liver Function Tests
Liver function tests (LFTs) assess the health of your liver by measuring enzymes and proteins in the blood. These tests can indicate liver damage or disease, conditions often associated with jaundice. LFTs help doctors understand the extent of liver impairment and tailor specific treatments accordingly.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests like ultrasounds or CT scans can help visualize the liver and bile ducts. These tests can detect blockages or abnormalities contributing to jaundice. They are vital in diagnosing structural problems that might be causing the symptoms.
FAQs
What is a bilirubin test?
It's a blood test measuring bilirubin levels to assess jaundice.
How do liver function tests help?
They evaluate liver health and detect conditions causing jaundice.
Why are imaging tests used for jaundice?
They help find structural issues like blockages in the liver or bile ducts.
The Bottom Line
Early testing is key to diagnosing and treating jaundice effectively.
Additional References
- Donner MG, Keppler D. Up-regulation of basolateral multidrug resistance protein 3 (Mrp3) in cholestatic rat liver. Hepatology 2001; 34:351.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.