Is jaundice measured by total bilirubin or direct bilirubin?

It is necessary to check the total bilirubin and direct bilirubin values, both of which are indispensable, in order to determine whether the patient has jaundice.

Jaundice is not an independent disease. It is just a characteristic that can occur in many diseases. It is manifested by elevated serum bilirubin levels, accompanied by yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes. Direct bilirubin and indirect bilirubin constitute total bilirubin. Elevated direct bilirubin may indicate hemolytic jaundice, which is generally more common in newborns. In obstructive jaundice, direct bilirubin/indirect bilirubin is less than 60%, accompanied by yellowing of the skin, fatigue, loss of appetite, itchy skin, abdominal distension and other manifestations.

Patients with jaundice need early detection and early treatment. If symptoms of jaundice occur, it is recommended to go to the hospital in time for treatment and relevant examinations, such as abdominal color ultrasound, blood routine, liver function tests, etc. Under the guidance of a doctor, find out the cause of the disease and conduct targeted treatment to avoid delaying the disease and affecting recovery.