| Definition | Jaundice caused by liver cell dysfunction | Jaundice caused by obstruction of bile flow |
| Site of Problem | Dysfunction of hepatocytes (liver cells) | Blockage in the bile ducts or bile flow |
| Bilirubin Level | Elevated direct (conjugated) and indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin levels | Elevated direct (conjugated) bilirubin level, normal or mildly elevated indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin level |
| Serum Alkaline Phosphatase Level | May be mildly elevated or normal | Markedly elevated |
| Urine Bilirubin | Positive for conjugated bilirubin (urobilinogen) | Positive for conjugated bilirubin (urobilinogen) |
| Stool Color | Normal or pale (acholic) stools | Dark-colored (normal or clay-colored) stools |
| Liver Function Tests | Variable abnormalities (e.g., elevated liver enzymes, abnormal coagulation profile) | Variable abnormalities (e.g., elevated liver enzymes, abnormal coagulation profile) |
| Causes | Hepatitis, cirrhosis, drug-induced liver injury, alcoholic liver disease | Gallstones, tumors, strictures, biliary atresia |
| Imaging Studies | Ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) | Ultrasonography, CT, MRI, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) |
| Treatment | Management of underlying liver disease or causative factors | Treatment of the underlying cause, relief of bile duct obstruction (surgical or endoscopic intervention) |
Biology Ease Staff asked 2 years ago