In cases of non-obstructive jaundice, which laboratory test result is most likely to be elevated?

In cases of non-obstructive jaundice, the most likely laboratory test result to be elevated is conjugated bilirubin. Non-obstructive jaundice typically arises from conditions that lead to an increase in the production of bilirubin or issues related to the metabolism and excretion of bilirubin rather than a blockage in the bile ducts.

When there’s a disruption in hepatic function or the processing of bilirubin, the liver may struggle to properly conjugate bilirubin. In non-obstructive settings, it is more common to see a rise in conjugated bilirubin levels due to conditions such as hepatitis or cirrhosis. These conditions hinder the liver's capacity to process and excrete bilirubin adequately, leading to an accumulation of conjugated bilirubin in the bloodstream.

Serum albumin levels would typically remain within normal ranges in such cases, as they are not directly related to bilirubin metabolism. Indirect bilirubin may increase in conditions that primarily involve hemolysis, but in non-obstructive jaundice, the focus is primarily on the conjugated bilirubin due to the liver's impaired ability to handle bilirubin. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels may also rise but are more reflective of liver cell injury rather