Clinical evaluation of jaundice. A guideline of the Patient Care Committee of the American Gastroenterological Association.

Many diagnostic studies and procedures are available for the evaluation of jaundice. By judicious selection of those that are most likely to lead to a prompt diagnosis and by weighing their relative risk and efficacy, the physician can better ensure the comfort and safety of the patient and the cost-effectiveness of medical care. A guideline is presented that recommends an approach to the evaluation of jaundice. It is based on a critical review of the literature and its application to clinical practice.