What is the difference between pre-hepatic, hepatic, and post-hepatic jaundice?

Jaundice is classified into three categories based on where the obstruction or problem occurs in the liver or bile ducts:

1. Pre-hepatic jaundice:
– Occurs before the liver (hence “pre-hepatic”)
– Caused by excessive breakdown of red blood cells (hemolysis)
– Bilirubin builds up in the blood before reaching the liver
– Examples: hemolytic anemia, sickle cell disease
2. Hepatic jaundice:
– Occurs within the liver (hence “hepatic”)
– Caused by liver damage or disease (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis)
– Liver cells can’t properly process bilirubin
– Examples: viral hepatitis, drug-induced liver injury