Which laboratory test is most likely to be elevated in cases of non-obstructive jaundice?

In cases of non-obstructive jaundice, the most likely laboratory test to be elevated is indirect bilirubin. Non-obstructive jaundice typically results from conditions that lead to an increase in the production of bilirubin, such as hemolysis or liver diseases that impair bilirubin conjugation.

Indirect bilirubin, also known as unconjugated bilirubin, is the form that is formed from the breakdown of hemoglobin and is not water-soluble. In situations where the liver is compromised in its ability to process bilirubin or when there is an increase in red blood cell destruction (hemolysis), the levels of indirect bilirubin will rise. This elevation occurs because the liver is either overwhelmed by the amount of bilirubin being produced or unable to convert it into the conjugated (direct) form due to its dysfunction.

Serum albumin is not typically elevated in this context; it might even be decreased if there's significant liver dysfunction or other disease processes. Alkaline phosphatase is more commonly elevated in conditions involving cholestasis or obstructive jaundice, and conjugated bilirubin levels would be increased in cases of obstructive jaundice rather than non-obstructive jaundice. Thus, focusing on the mechanisms behind bilirubin