THE ROLE OF LABORATORY DATA IN THE DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS OF VARIOUS TYPES OF JAUNDICE

Abstract

Jaundice is an important clinical syndrome associated with various diseases of the hepatobiliary system, blood, and metabolism. Timely and accurate differential diagnosis of the various types of jaundice is crucial for selecting an effective treatment strategy. This study examines the role of laboratory tests in the diagnosis of prehepatic, hepatic, and posthepatic jaundice. The diagnostic significance of measuring bilirubin and its fractions, the activity of liver enzymes such as ALT, AST, ALP, and GGT, as well as additional biochemical and hematological parameters, is analyzed. It has been shown that a comprehensive interpretation of laboratory data makes it possible to identify the pathogenic mechanism underlying the development of jaundice, assess the extent of liver damage, and detect abnormalities in bile flow. Laboratory testing remains one of the key steps in establishing an accurate diagnosis and determining the appropriate course of treatment.