Jaundice and abnormal liver blood tests:

Jaundice occurs when the body's bilirubin levels are raised and is associated with a yellow discolouration of the skin. The reasons why a patient can become jaundiced are divided into two main areas: those that affect the liver's drainage system and non- liver related causes.
Reasons for jaundice and abnormal liver tests include:

• Infections
• Alcohol excess
• Medications 
• Tomours
• Gallstones

While jaundice is associated with abnormal liver function tests, it is possible to have abnormal liver function tests without it. These require careful investigation using blood tests and x-ray tests e.g. ultrasound scan. On rare occasion, a sample of tissue from the liver (biopsy) may be required.