Hello, I'm a healthcare professional with experience in diagnosing and treating various medical conditions. Jaundice is a condition where the skin and the whites of the eyes turn yellow due to a buildup of a substance called bilirubin in the body. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when red blood cells are broken down. When the liver is unable to process bilirubin properly, it can accumulate in the body and cause jaundice.
To test for jaundice, the following steps are typically taken:
1. Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will examine the skin and eyes for a yellowish tint, which is a visible sign of jaundice.
2. Blood Tests: The most common test for jaundice is a blood test to measure the level of bilirubin in the blood. High levels of bilirubin can indicate jaundice.
3. Liver Function Tests (LFTs): These tests evaluate how well the liver is working and can help determine if the jaundice is due to a liver problem.
4. Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be used to visualize the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts to check for blockages or other abnormalities.
5. Additional Tests: Depending on the suspected cause, additional tests such as a blood smear, Coombs test, or genetic testing may be performed.
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