Definition & Etiology

Definition
– Result of dysfunction in biliary metabolism
– Clinically apparent when bilirubin exceeds 5 μmol/L

Common Causes
– Alcohol
– Malignancy
– Gallstones

Classification
1. Prehepatic causes:
– Associated with increased unconjugated bilirubin in serum
2. Hepatic causes
3. Post-hepatic causes:
– Associated with increased conjugated bilirubin in serum
– Symptoms: pale stools, dark urine, urticaria