They Were All Yellow: Anaemia and Jaundice

Jaundice cases can be confusing to get to the bottom of. Untangling the elements of the clinical presentation to determine whether the cause is pre-, intra- or post-hepatic requires a considered approach. This is particularly important where concurrent conditions can confound the clinical picture. During the first part of this day, we will discuss the pathophysiology of jaundice and also discover some useful tips to differentiate these three causative categories. Using case examples, we will also work through the diagnosis and treatment of the most common hepatobiliary diseases.

The second half of the day will concentrate on anaemia in more detail – in particular those haemolytic anaemia cases that might present with jaundice. Immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia (IMHA) is certainly the most common diagnosis but what other differentials should be considered? A review of emergency stabilisation and treatment options for these cases will form the core of the afternoon.

Topics to be covered include:

• Systematic approach to jaundice
• Hepatobiliary causes of jaundice
• Review of immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia
• How to perform blood transfusions safely in practice